OWATONNA, MN - Wenger Corporation, a leading provider of innovative products and solutions for performing arts and music education, played a key role in delivering acoustic, rigging and control equipment for the recently reopened Jacobs Music Center (JMC) in San Diego. This renovation included advanced technology upgrades to improve acoustics, increase programming flexibility and elevate the audience experience. As the home of the San Diego Symphony, one of the nation’s top orchestras, this venue now shines with modern enhancements while preserving its rich historic character.
“Such an outstanding project is only possible through collaboration with world-class organizations like the San Diego Symphony, John Frane and Jim Moore of HGA Architects, Paul Scarbrough’s team at Akustiks and Joshua Grossman of Schuler Shook,” said Andy Knapp, Performing Arts Product Manager at Wenger Corporation. “Wenger’s involvement reflects the trust we’ve built over decades, delivering reliable, innovative solutions that bring our partners’ visions to life – often while overcoming unique challenges.”
One such challenge was the extremely limited space in this historic facility. Originally built in 1929 as the Fox Theatre, the venue was transformed into Copley Symphony Hall following a major renovation in 1985. As with most older buildings, exact structural dimensions were not revealed until selective demolition was underway, which required Wenger to maintain flexibility – a key strength of the company. Jim Moore, AIA, Vice President and Principal with HGA, praised Wenger's adaptability, saying, “Wenger was a key partner in solving problems creatively and very quickly.”
Wenger orchestrated the rigging for over 75 precision-engineered openings in the historic plaster ceiling, supporting projection screens, speakers, stage lighting and five chandeliers. The tight installation space posed yet another challenge, as all equipment had to be delivered through a small exterior door on a sloped street 30 feet above the stage.
Creating an acoustically superior environment for both music and performance events was central to the renovation. Wenger installed a striking custom acoustic canopy made of 20 fiberglass-reinforced plastic panels, most of which are adjustable in three dimensions, allowing musicians to hear clearly on stage and optimizing sound projection to the audience. The panels’ curvature was engineered to diffuse middle and low frequencies, while fine-scale diffusion of higher frequencies was achieved through small divots machined into the surface by fabricator Kreysler & Associates. Additionally, Wenger engineered and installed motorized variable acoustic curtains behind the stage and throughout the hall.
“Wenger's deep well of expertise and ingenuity can tackle even the most complex assignment,” said Paul Scarbrough, Principal at Akustiks. “They thrive on finding solutions that translate design concepts into beautiful, functional realities.”
Wenger also streamlined the transition between events for JMC’s production staff by installing J.R. Clancy rigging equipment including numerous PowerLift® and Titan® hoists operated by a custom Vantis™ controls solution. “Wenger was very flexible and collaborative in Vantis programming, customizing it to meet the Symphony's specific needs for ease of use,” noted Joshua Grossman, Partner with Schuler Shook. The system minimizes button presses and displays real-time data for the precise location of acoustic reflectors and curtains, controlling more than 160 machines.
Reflecting on Wenger’s role in this project, HGA’s Moore added, “Their genuine love of solving problems and their passion for accomplishing unique things are obvious. You can’t pull off projects like this without people who bring that level of curiosity and optimism.”
The Jacobs Music Center renovation has significantly enhanced its acoustical capabilities and programming versatility, ensuring its continued place as a premier destination for world-class symphonic music and entertainment in Southern California.
Previously, Wenger played a pivotal role in the installation of The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park™, an outdoor amphitheater on San Diego’s harbor that opened in 2021 as the Symphony’s summer home. The iconic shell-like structure, made of steel tubes wrapped in white fabric, allows for an open, airy feel by day and visually stunning nighttime effects.
J.R. Clancy rigging, including custom Titan® hoists, operates the lighting, speakers and projection screens at The Rady Shell. The venue’s curved framework presented engineering challenges that Wenger overcame by designing custom mounting hardware. To withstand the coastal environment, Wenger used marine-grade, corrosion-resistant components. The controls system was also fully customized to ensure seamless operations.
Wenger Corporation’s vital contributions to these two facilities showcase the company’s ability to overcome complex challenges in delivering tailored, state-of-the-art solutions. Both projects exemplify Wenger’s unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation, ensuring these venues will remain celebrated performance destinations for years to come. By collaborating with renowned partners and leveraging decades of experience and expertise, Wenger continues to shape the future of performance spaces, bringing visions to life with precision and creativity.
About Wenger Corporation
Wenger Corporation enriches lives by enabling and inspiring great performances through engineering innovative products and solutions for music and theatre education, performing arts venues and athletic programs. Our portfolio of high-quality Wenger, J.R. Clancy and GearBoss products and solutions caters to music and theatre education, performing arts venues and athletics programs. Products include theatrical rigging systems, acoustical shells and treatment, acoustical doors, and sound-isolating practice rooms, fixed and portable audience seating, and portable and mobile staging systems. Our furniture line includes music posture chairs, music stands, conductor’s equipment, and high-density and portable storage solutions for instruments, garments, sheet music and media equipment. We also offer a complete line of athletic lockers, equipment storage and transport products. For more information call +1.507.455.4100 or visit www.wengercorp.com.