The position of Gothic organs in Notre-Dame de Paris: An archeoacoustic simulation study

Abstract

This study examines the acoustic effects of Gothic pipe organ placement within the late medieval architecture of the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris. A historically informed geometric acoustic model of the cathedral is used for numerical simulations. The liturgical choir and nave are furnished in a medieval style consistent with the period, including wooden stalls, tapestries, a rood screen, and walls enclosing the chancel. Historical evidence for the positions and dimensions of 14th- and 15th-century organs informs the modelled organ sound source used in the simulations. The acoustic effects of six organ positions (on the western tribune, as a swallow's nest on the south wall, on the rood screen, in the southern transept, and above the northern stalls in the choir), three elevation levels (ground level, triforium, and clerestory), and two occupancy conditions (occupied and unoccupied) are evaluated. Variations in sound pressure level (SPL) and centre time are analysed across the ground level. The results reveal significant effects of organ position on audibility, elevation on clarity, and occupancy on sound intensity and clarity. These findings inform discussions on the musical and political motivations behind organ placement in Gothic cathedrals and their acoustic implications. • Geometrical acoustic modeling of Notre Dame de Paris in late Middle Ages. • Gothic organ simulation in a Notre Dame de Paris using a geometrical acoustic model. • Effects of furnishing, architecture and occupation on Notre Dame de Paris Cathedral acoustics. • Effects of position, elevation and occupation on organ perception.

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