$15 Million Renovation Project to Upgrade the World-Renowned Cultural Institution
Photos of Reflecting Pool Available Here
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the completion of the reflecting pool rehabilitation at Kleinhans Music Hall. The iconic pool, which will now be known as The Stenclik Family Reflecting Pool, is a beautiful accent to the overall building design, which includes curves that mimic the silhouette of a violin. The project is just one part of a $15 million renovation project that will prevent further deterioration of the National Historic Landmark and is visited by approximately 150,000 residents and visitors each year. The much-needed upgrades are being supported by $9 million in state funds.
“Kleinhans is one of the finest concert halls in the world. People come for the music and events but are often drawn to the reflecting pool, which is a selfie hotspot in Buffalo,” Governor Hochul said. “By investing in this cultural and architectural gem, we ensure it will continue to contribute to the quality of life and economic vitality of the region for decades to come. I look forward to seeing residents and visitors enjoy the fine arts and culture that New York has to offer.”
Kleinhans Music Hall, located on Symphony Circle, has served Western New York for 82 years and is an economic engine for the region. It is owned by the City of Buffalo and managed by Kleinhans Music Hall Management Inc., a not-for-profit. The iconic hall was built in 1939, designed by Eliel and Eero Saarinen, and is the home performance and rehearsal space for the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, Just Buffalo Literary Center’s BABEL Author Series, and Buffalo Chamber Music Society; and is rented for many school, community, and family celebrations. The Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra hosts all Buffalo Public School students in grades kindergarten through five for performances, amounting to about 24,000 children each year. An additional 16,000 students from across Western New York also travel to Kleinhans for performances annually. Each year, Kleinhans hosts over 150 events with approximately 150,000 people in attendance.
The reflecting pool is located on the eastern side of the building and wraps around the exterior of the Mary Seton Room, creating a transition between the elliptical building and the lawn. In 1956, the pool was filled in and became part of the lawn, but it was sorely missed by all who had grown to appreciate its beauty and contribution to the overall design. In 2001, the pool was redesigned and recreated as the reflecting pool the community has grown to know and love today. The recent pool rehabilitation project included draining, resurfacing, and relining the 17,000-square-foot structure. The three inches of water, which is drained in the fall and filled in the spring to avoid freezing and cracking of the foundation.