Cutting edge

Article Abstract:

First impressions of Poland's Wieliczka salt mine, a Unesco heritage site, can be rather alarming. It is situated on the edge of the industrial wasteland south of Krakow, Poland, and is not at all attractive. However, visitors soon realize why this site is so interesting. It contains many fascinating salt carvings, and bears signs of having been used by the occupying Germans as an aircraft engine factory during the second world war. One of the most interesting sights is the Chapel of the Blessed Kinga, which has been hollowed out of a single solid block of salt.

Poland, Description and travel, Salt industry

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The war against perfection

Article Abstract:

Sixteen is a choral music group which has Harry Christophers as its conductor, and has been performing for 22 years. The group initially performed 16th century works. Christophers argues that Catholic singers use raw emotion, which Anglican singers strive too much for precision. The group is able to preserve Britain's musical heritage, Christophers argues, and he laments the destrcution of much music in the mid-16th century. Modern perfromances in cathedrals tend to exclude longer pieces, and he aims to redress this imbalance.

United Kingdom, Management, History, Choirs (Music), Church music, Choral music

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Under starter's orders

Article Abstract:

The Halle orchestra is to move from the Free Trade Hall in Manchester, England, to the city's Bridgewater Hall. This has received careful attention from acoustician Rob Harris, and is entirely insulated against outside noise. The roof beams, for example, have a sound-diffusing shape, while angular glass canopies which can be brought down over the players' heads act as 'ensemble reflectors.' The whole hall is on a bed of springs, with no rigid links between it and the outside world.

Design and construction, Buildings and facilities, Manchester, England, Music-halls, Music facilities, Halle Orchestra and Halle Concerts Society

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