Successful sound reinforcement can often be defined as a quest for simplicity. Behind this quest, however, lies meticulous attention to detail, application of experience, constant communication and a lot of hard work.

All of these factors, and more, were put into play at Roseville Covenant Church, where Kingdom Sound & Lighting and System Designer Gary Johnson combined their respective talents in the development of a well-executed sound system in the church’s new Roseville, Minnesota sanctuary.

Gary Johnson (left) and Loren Bartelt.

Kingdom Sound & Lighting, based in Burnsville, Minnesota and led by Loren Bartelt, specializes in systems work for churches and educational facilities, with close to 20 years of work leading to their status as one of the leading firms in the upper Midwest region, including two recently opened satellite offices. Johnson collaborates with the company on a regular basis, contributing expertise in crucial design aspects.

The sound team entered this project enjoying a long-standing, successful relationship with the church. They had supplied the design and installation of a system at the church’s previous sanctuary, backed by eight years of excellent support. As a result, they were the de facto choice to lead this new project.

“Our philosophy is to extend beyond the standard ‘client’ relationship into a realm of true partnership, and in many cases, friendship. We enjoy developing relationships with the people we serve, getting to know them, what they need, what they like and what they might want in the future,” explains Bartelt. “After a system is commissioned, we don’t just offer a quick training session and head out the door. Lines of communication remain open and we strive to provide continual advice and service that helps them continue to grow and thrive creatively, and in the technical sense.”

With a seating capacity of approximately 450, the Roseville Covenant Church sanctuary is a beautiful, comfortable space that affords surprising intimacy between all seating and the large front platform. The room shape can most easily be described as an octagon, three times wider than it is deep and topped by a roof that gently peaks in the center to a height of 25 feet.

The Roseville Covenant Church sanctuary in full view. The room shape can best be described as an octagon, and the acoustical signature is friendly.

Four main floor seating sections fan out from the platform, with the furthest seats, located in the far corners of the room, no more than 45 feet from the podium. Both the platform and main floor are fully carpeted. A unique feature is an additional performance area adjacent to the platform at main floor level that regularly hosts a bell choir.