Review Article

Origin and early activities in acoustics at the Technical University of Denmark^⋆

¹ Odeon A/S, DTU Science Park, Diplomvej Bldg. 381, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby Denmark
² Sweco Danmark A/S, Ørestads Boulevard 41, 2300 København S, Denmark

^* Corresponding author: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Received: 17 September 2025
Accepted: 26 January 2026

Abstract

Acoustic research and other activities at the Technical University of Denmark can be traced back to 1935, although it was not until 1966 that the university established an acoustical laboratory with new laboratory facilities of very high quality. The spark that initiated this development was the building of studios for the Danish Broadcasting 1931, that became an acoustical scandal and revealed the need for scientifically based knowledge on room acoustics and sound insulation. The rector of the Technical University, P.O. Pedersen, professor at the laboratory of tele-communication technique, started an acoustic research group in 1935, and he was the driving force in establishing a laboratory of sound technology in 1941. This was in the buildings of the Technical University, and some of the staff started to teach acoustics to the university students. P.O. Pedersen picked three young engineers for the acoustics research group: Vilhelm Jordan, Per Brüel, and Fritz Ingerslev. All three became of substantial importance for the development of acoustics in Denmark and worldwide; Jordan in concert hall acoustics, Brüel by establishing the B&K company, and Ingerslev as a professor at the university and a driving force in international cooperation (ICA, I-INCE) and standardization (ISO).