Sir Harold Marshall

Performing Arts

1 Jan

location

Auckland, New Zealand

Sir Harold Marshall (1931 - 2024) was a highly respected architect, engineer and physicist, who in 1981 co-founded Marshall Day Acoustics with Chris Day. He earned international acclaim for his significant contributions to the design of theatres and concert halls.

Recognised as one of the world’s most creative and innovative concert hall designers, his groundbreaking studies in the late 1960s on the importance of room cross-sections profoundly influenced contemporary concert hall design. With a career spanning over 60 years in the acoustical design of auditoria and concert halls, Harold’s work is frequently cited in technical literature.

His passion for acoustics was sharpened by his active involvement in musical performance, both as a chorister and a bass-baritone, with a special affinity for J S Bach. This unique combination of architectural skills and musical expertise allowed him to communicate effectively with architects, clients and project teams.

He held the position of Emeritus Professor at the University of Auckland School of Architecture and was Head of the Acoustics Research Centre.

In recognition of his many contributions to the field of architectural acoustics, Harold was honoured with numerous prestigious awards.

Beyond his professional endeavours, Harold enjoyed choral singing, gardening, and freshwater and sea fishing. He was also a published author and poet. Sir Harold Marshall’s legacy continues to inspire and influence Marshall Day Acoustics, as well as the greater field of acoustics.

Sir Harold Marshall’s major contributions include:

The particular importance of lateral reflected sound and of the architectural means to achieve this in concert halls
The necessary and sufficient conditions for excellent ensemble for both instrumental groups and singers
Discussion of acoustical and architectural relationships in the design process