Cincinnati Music Hall, known as the Music Hall, is a historic and iconic venue. Completed in 1878, it is renowned for its Venetian Gothic architecture, designed by Samuel Hannaford. Since 1975, it has been recognized as a national historic landmark. The hall serves as the home for several prestigious organizations, including the Cincinnati Ballet, the Symphony Orchestra, the Opera, and the Pops Orchestra.
The Music Hall was originally built for two purposes: as the central auditorium for musical performances and side wings for industrial exhibitions. The building's design includes three separate structures — the Music Hall itself, the North Exhibition Building, and the South Exhibition Building, all connected by upper floors. Impressive architectural details include a steep roof, intricate brickwork, and a prominent Rose window.
The centerpiece of the Music Hall is the Springer Auditorium, which seats 2,289 people for symphony performances and 2,439 for Pops concerts. The large Czech-Slovak chandelier in the auditorium, installed in the early 1970s, adds charm to the space along with 96 candles and a diameter of 21 feet (approximately 6 meters).
Over the years, the Music Hall has hosted numerous events and performances, including major political conventions, music festivals, and concerts by legendary artists such as Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, and Miles Davis. The building underwent significant renovation from 2016 to 2017, with a $143 million investment to modernize and expand the space, securing its status as a leading cultural venue in Cincinnati.
An interesting story about the Music Hall includes its location on the site of a former boneyard for the poor, which contributed to tales of ghosts. The venue has appeared on programs such as Ghost Hunting and America's Scariest Places on the Travel Channel, adding to its reputation as one of the most haunted places in the country.
With its rich history, stunning architecture, and role as a cultural hub, Cincinnati Music Hall continues to remain a beloved and significant landmark.
Current information:
Address: 1241 Elm St, Cincinnati, OH 45202, United States
Contacts: +1 (513)-744-3344
