Nashville Symphony Unveils Ambitious New Concert Hall Expansion

Nashville Symphony Unveils Ambitious New Concert Hall ExpansionNashville Symphony Unveils Ambitious New Concert Hall Expansion The Nashville Symphony has unveiled ambitious plans for a major expansion of its iconic concert hall, the Schermerhorn Symphony Center. The $130 million project, named “The Encores,” will transform the facility into a world-class performance and community destination. The expansion includes: * A new concert hall: A dedicated, 1,000-seat recital hall for chamber music, soloists, and smaller ensembles. * A black box theater: A flexible space for experimental and immersive performances, workshops, and educational programs. * An expanded lobby: A welcoming and vibrant space for pre-concert gatherings, receptions, and exhibitions. * A rooftop terrace: An outdoor gathering space with panoramic city views, ideal for receptions and special events. * Community spaces: A dedicated area for educational programs, workshops, and community engagement initiatives. The expansion will provide the Nashville Symphony with much-needed space for its growing programming and educational outreach. It is also expected to boost tourism and economic vitality in the downtown area. Nashville Mayor John Cooper praised the project as a “transformative investment in our city’s cultural landscape.” He said, “The Encores will strengthen the symphony’s position as a world-class arts organization and make Nashville an even more attractive destination for music lovers.” The $130 million fundraising goal includes a significant public investment of $50 million from the City of Nashville. The symphony is also seeking support from private donors, foundations, and corporate sponsors. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2024 and be completed by 2028. The symphony will continue to perform in the Schermerhorn Symphony Center during the construction period. “The Encores is a bold and ambitious project that will ensure the long-term vitality of the Nashville Symphony,” said Alan Valentine, president and CEO of the symphony. “We believe it will not only elevate our performances but also connect us more deeply with our community and create a vibrant cultural hub for Nashville.”