Concert orchestra layout favors right-ear treble but leaves treble physically on the left

Evidence

Studies of the directionality of the sound radiation from violins shows it to be very nonuniform, especially above 500 Hz, where the wavelength starts to approach the size of the violin. High frequencies are very directional indeed. This has consequences for the timbre of the violin, which changes as the violin is moved about. We have no doubt become accustomed to the scintillating upper partials (as the performer moves) and find it pleasant, even necessary to good sound. — Eric J. Heller, Why You Hear What You Hear- An…, 1785 (#corroborates, via linked claim)

Categorization

• XREF: connects to: Concert ensemble seating layouts reflect a right-ear preference for higher pitches.; Historical orchestra seating arrangements changed how listeners perceived part-writing; High-pitched voices and instruments conventionally sit to the left of lower ones. (+3 more)

Broader Connections

• Musicians hear higher-pitched parts with their right ear and lower parts with their left #complicates (0.80)
• Violin timbre changes with direction as high frequencies become increasingly directional #corroborates (0.78) — Eric J. Heller, Why You Hear What You Hear- An…, 1785
• Large reverberant venues may compromise listeners’ ability to discern timbral qualities #expands (0.72)