This is a massive building. Generally, height of sanctuary is determined formulaically. Older cathedral-sized churches were emblematic of this. lacking microphones, height and acoustics were critical to those in the back being able to both hear and see.
Evidently, those in the front will leave with a stiff neck. Perhaps this is too extreme, nonetheless, that's how things were formerly done.
I've cantored in a church where the acoustics are so good, the priest voice (when speaking in a low voice - not sotto voce, just talking - in the holy place (sanctuary) travels effortlessly over the ceiling and is both audible and understandable from the choir loft. Those in the nave/pews might not be able to hear as well.
We share a common experience, cantoring! When the destruction of the Latin Rite began, I was pulled out of the altar boys to cantor, a role I performed for over 40 years. I have also experienced the type of acoustics you mentioned. In those situations the microphone was superfluous!
It seems that the altar was placed that high in order that it can be seen from the spacious balconies on either side of the vane. There's a short video here of the interior - it is, shall, we say, an "unusual" design. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/FcO6Amvhvi0?app=desktop
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This is a massive building. Generally, height of sanctuary is determined formulaically. Older cathedral-sized churches were emblematic of this. lacking microphones, height and acoustics were critical to those in the back being able to both hear and see.
Evidently, those in the front will leave with a stiff neck. Perhaps this is too extreme, nonetheless, that's how things were formerly done.
I've cantored in a church where the acoustics are so good, the priest voice (when speaking in a low voice - not sotto voce, just talking - in the holy place (sanctuary) travels effortlessly over the ceiling and is both audible and understandable from the choir loft. Those in the nave/pews might not be able to hear as well.
ByzRus,
We share a common experience, cantoring! When the destruction of the Latin Rite began, I was pulled out of the altar boys to cantor, a role I performed for over 40 years. I have also experienced the type of acoustics you mentioned. In those situations the microphone was superfluous!
Happy New Year!
It seems that the altar was placed that high in order that it can be seen from the spacious balconies on either side of the vane. There's a short video here of the interior - it is, shall, we say, an "unusual" design. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/FcO6Amvhvi0?app=desktop
vane = nave
TJM, Happy New Year!
Wishing you and yours peach, health and happiness!
Happy New Year everyone. Don’t give up.
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