Professor Angelo Farina, 1958–2025by Prof. Ing. Lamberto TronchinWith profound sadness, I share that Professor Angelo Farina passed away in March 2025. A beloved mentor, colleague, and pioneer in the field of acoustics, Professor Farina shaped generations of researchers through his innovative work and inspiring teaching. His groundbreaking contributions spanned many areas of acoustics, including immersive audio, room acoustics, and underwater acoustics.Angelo Farina graduated from the University of Bologna in 1982 with a five-year “Laurea” degree in Civil Engineering and earned a Ph.D. in Technical Physics in 1987. He was appointed Associate Professor of Environmental Technical Physics at the University of Parma in 1998 and became a Full Professor in 2005. He taught Applied Acoustics at the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Parma. Angelo conducted extensive and in-depth research in nearly all fields of Acoustics, with a particular focus on digital signal processing techniques for acoustical measurements and audio effects, as well as numerical models for sound field estimation in both closed and open spaces. In more detail, he developed new measurement techniques, based on the employment of binary pseudo-random signals (MLS) and, more recently, on exponentially swept sinusoidal signals; these allow for the easy measurement of sound propagation in workplaces, outdoors, and in concert halls and auditoriums. Furthermore, these new techniques made it possible to measure “in situ” the acoustical properties of materials, with the main application in the evaluation of the sound absorption coefficient and sound reduction index of porous road surfaces and noise shields.Professor Farina’s extensive research includes more than 300 peer-reviewed papers and international conferences proceedings. Besides research, he was a very active member of the audio community, frequently serving as Chair and speaker at AES Conventions and specialized workshops. Long time AES member, AES Fellow from 2000, he was awarded the prestigious Silver Medal by the Audio Engineering Society in 2024 in recognition of his significant scientific achievements. His work has left an indelible mark on the acoustics community, influencing both academic research and practical applications. His passion for acoustics and his dedication to mentoring others have left a lasting legacy. He was not only a brilliant scientist but also a cherished friend and mentor. His contributions have shaped the field, and his memory will continue to inspire future generations.I first met Professor Angelo Farina when I was a student attending the last year of the Master’s Degree in Building Engineering at the University of Bologna. He had just started giving lectures in the applied acoustics course, and he taught especially room acoustics. Until that moment, I hadn’t realized what my job would be after graduation. Since I was also completing my piano studies at the conservatory, I immediately figured out that I would become an Acoustician, working on measuring and designing the acoustics of theatres, concert halls, churches, and auditoriums.Angelo Farina had just started teaching and wasn’t known at all at that time. After the first lecture, I wanted to talk with him. I told him that I was a piano player, and he immediately gave me a test on my ability to hear musical intervals. We spent one hour after his lecture in the laboratory. After some months, I decided to prepare my final dissertation in room acoustics and psychoacoustics, and I measured IRs in seven theatres, comparing the acoustic parameters with subjective evaluation. This work lasted for almost two years.From that day, I was always in contact with Angelo. A few years later, Angelo started becoming a distinguished figure in the field of acoustics. We carried out research in room acoustics, musical acoustics, listening tests, spatial audio, and auralisation. Angelo always had an answer for each of my many questions. I spent a lot of time with him at his laboratory, for more than 30 years. Many times, I remained at his laboratory until evening, when the University closed the doors, and I never felt tired for having spent hours in Parma, even if I would get back to Bologna after midnight. I visited his home, and he hosted me together with his lovely family. They all considered me like a member of the family. He will be missed dearly by colleagues, students, and friends around the world.
The post Professor Angelo Farina, 1958–2025 appeared first on AES.
Read more at AES
