International Networks of Finnish Acoustician Paavo Arni

Abstract

Mr Paavo Arni (1905-1969) was a central influencer in the field of acoustics in Finland since the 1940’s until his death. Paavo Arni ran an engineering office specialized in acoustics, but he was also active in education, founding of the Acoustical Society of Finland, preparing regulation concerning sound insulation of apartment buildings as well as occupational noise. He also supported research on acoustics in Finland and internationally, too. In addition, he was the author of the first Finnish handbook on acoustics published in 1949. The base of the wide range of activities of Paavo Arni was possible because of his main work at the Finnish Broadcasting Company YLE. He began as a studio manager in 1931 and ended his career as a technical director of YLE. Construction of studios provoked a need for knowledge on acoustics. Paavo Arni started to form international connections with other broadcasting companies and with acousticians in the 1930s by making visits, attending conferences and hosting international experts’ visits in Finland.