The Cincinnati Music Hall is the cultural centerpiece of Overthe-Rhine, the historic Cincinnati neighborhood undergoing transformative revitalization over the past decade. Built in 1878, it celebrates its 140th birthday this year. But just over 4 years ago, the red brick High Victorian Gothic was on the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s list of the 11 Most Endangered Places, sending a rallying cry to the community. The home to the Cincinnati Symphony, Pops Orchestra, Ballet, Opera and May Festival needed a $143 million rehabilitation. The 327,000 square foot facility needed structural, functional and aesthetic upgrades. $53 million was raised from the private sector, $10 million from the City, with an additional $6.6 million pledged, $48 million in tax credit equity and a $25 million Ohio Catalytic Historic Preservation Tax Credit award contributed to the success of this project. This National Historic Landmark is a stunning example of historic preservation.
The award was presented to The Society for Preservation of Music Hall, 3CDC, PWWG Architects, Martinez + Johnson Architects, Cincinnati Arts Association, Music Hall Revitalization Company, & Messer Construction Company.