Attended the US premiere of the Pink Floyd opera, Another Brick in the Wall, and this venue truly lived up to the hype! The Cincinnati Music Hall offers a classy but still fun environment. The renovations are stunning and it was refreshing to see an incredible live performance in a place with so much character. The staff was incredible and laid back I might add. Can't wait to go again! read more

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Talk about a massive, and imposing building. A historic building with lots of old world charm. Lots of beautiful chandeliers, and finishes. The ballroom upstairs would be great for a wedding reception. We went to Music Hall to attend a performance from of the Lollipops Family Concert Series. Lollipops are shortened concerts, intended for children, and preformed by the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra. Dancers preform during various parts of the concert. They are a great way to introduce children to the arts, without them bothering a more adult crowd. We attended Carnival of the Animals. Music was great. I was impressed by the orchestra's skill level. The narrator was lively. His puns were clever. The Conductor was exuberant. Very fun to watch. The dancing entertained the young crowed. To an adult eye, dancers were clearly out of sync. I don't remember where the teen group was from. Preshow activities were set up in the ballroom upstairs. Parking is available under Washington Park. read more

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Where to start? The long and short of it is that Music Hall is an amazing treasure and worth preserving for many generations to come. I have attended as well as performed many times in this place and so it's about time I review it. Regarding concerts. Acoustically, MH is darn near perfect. There have been recent improvements costing millions of dollars, and I would think that it's worth it. Thanks to the Corbett Foundation and others. A list of performers here reads like a "Who's Who" of musical awesomeness. And I'm not just talking Classical musicians. Heck, Prince played here in 2000. Having performed here with the May Festival Youth and later in the May Festival adult chorus, I can tell you that backstage, this place has more nooks and crannies than an English muffin. The dressing rooms have the vintage feel and look of old. The practice rooms vary in size from HUGE to standard room size. Trivia: the main Springer Auditorium can accommodate 3,516 people. The ballroom can accommodate 1,300 people and I was here most recently for the Bacchanalian Society Winter wine event. In the past my high school had our prom here too. There is a modern sound and lighting system and it was put to good use by the DJ. Recently the staff have embraced a younger audience (heck, they kinda have to if they want to keep filling the seats for classical performances) by increasing their social media presence and even encouraging live tweeting during performances. Granted, I am slightly old school and advise actually turning off your cell so that you can experience the music and not be like this person: http://www.observer.com/2012/01/music-director-stops-philharmonic-to-shame-cell-phone-miscreant/ The staff are always friendly and helpful if you are unsure as to your seating location. I used to love seeing this one old man that would let you in via the parking garage entrance. He's the grandpa I never had. :) Post Cincinnati Symphony performances, there is a door outside the auditorium (left side) where you can go backstage to the Green Room and meet the soloists and orchestra. I remember going back and meeting a then very young Hilary Hahn and Leila Josefowicz among others. I could go on and on, but I'll end it by saying that even if you don't really like Classical Music, you should at least go here for some kind of performance and walk around. Soak up the elegance and history. There are tours offered by the The Society for the Preservation of Music Hall http://www.spmhcincinnati.org/Music-Hall-Today/Tours.php There is also a Ghost Tour http://cincinnatiarts.org/index.jsp?eventDetail=1&event_id=1134 I never experienced any paranormal activity, but I have spoken with a few workers there and they did have a few stories that were a little spooky. Tips: Don't clap unless everyone and I mean everyone else is. Classical music is not always loud and even audible. While you will see people in full tuxes, fur coats, etc, the younger generation, at least the men, has decided that business casual is perfectly acceptable dress. Ladies, keep dressing up because you look beautiful and its a good excuse to go shopping. Go to the bathroom before, during intermission and any other breaks. Your bladder will thank you. Student ticket pricing is very reasonable. I remember in the past that they offered educational season ticket pricing for faculty and staff of schools and universities. Go there, explore it, love it. read more

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Music Hall is my absolute favorite building in the city. I am delighted that it is once again open to the public. After two years of renovations the "New Music Hall" still preserves all the history and charm of the older version. First of all there is a brand new box office located on the north end of the building. You no longer have to talk to a ticketing representative through a failing intercom system from outside. The new box office allows patrons to come inside for ticketing purchases and has a lobby to wait in when it's cold outside. Springer Auditorium has been completely reconfigured. The new seating configurations gets rid of many of the limited view seats that were due to support poles. The seats are also brand new and very comfortable and even have cup holders! It's the little things am I right? The exterior is stunning with the "black bricks" newly restored. When the building was built many of the exterior accent bricks were dyed black with tar, however after a power washing many years ago all the bricks returned to their natural color. During the revitalization the bricks were treated with a new permanent dye and the original exterior is now back to it's former glory. I actually learned about the bricks when I went on a Backstage and Beyond tour put on by the Society for the Preservation of Music Hall. If you're a history and architecture nerd I highly recommend taking it. Music Hall has always been the gem of our city and I'm very happy to see that tradition will continue on for many years to come! read more

I'm here nearly every week and somehow I've never reviewed it. If you haven't been to Music Hall, you're missing out on something great. You especially need to get there soon b/c in a year or so it will close for extensive renovations and restoration. It will be interesting to compare and contrast between the old and new. The CSO is a real treat, as are the other resident arts organizations. Definitely a treasure for the City of Cincinnati and something everyone should experience. After a show stop by the Gateway Quarter for some Taste of Belgium, Senate or A Tavola! read more

Music Hall - New Pops sign! - Performing Arts Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

Who could give this place, especially if you're from Cincinnati, less than 5 stars? I mean, Music Hall IS Cincinnati! Such a beautiful building on the inside and out. And after the multi million dollar renovation- gorgeous! The pride of this place shows in those that work there. They seem to love this facility. Sadly I don't get to visit this place often but if you get the chance to see a performance of any kind at Music Hall, you must! read more

I've seen amazing rock concerts here, the world renowned Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Lumenocity, and even my sister's Med School Graduation here. A year or two ago, as I was watching a band (Grizzly Bear) at Midpoint Music Fest in Washington Park, I looked over to a friend(a civil engineer), and he was transfixed, looking at Music Hall. I asked him what he was looking at, and he said, "I'm looking at a building that will never be built again". And it made me sad. read more

Music Hall - Performing Arts Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

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AS GOOD AS IT GETS! Music Hall never does anything that is not extraordinary! I have season tickets to the Pops and am amazed after every show. I once was a Super in an Opera there and have sang there previously with my high school choir. This site is one of the TOP venues in Cincinnati. Having the recently remodelled Washington Park nearby just adds to the esteem of the place. I also hear it is haunted and there are ghost tours available. Definitely go here. read more

Music Hall - Performing Arts Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

Music Hall is one of the most stunning period pieces of German architecture in Cincinnati. The grandiose building encompasses an entire city block and was erected in 1878. Prior to Music Hall, Cincinnatians listened to orchestral concerts in a building with a tin roof. During a thunderstorm, performers could be drowned out for a period of 20 minutes, thus ruining the show. Local philanthropist, Reuben Springer, donated $125,000 in matching funds to build a new facility: and Music Hall was born. The center of the building was originally built solely for musical activities and buildings on either side were used as exhibition halls. Built specifically for May Festival in 1878, Music Hall is home to the oldest choral festival in North America. Why was singing so important in Cincinnati? It was a tradition brought by many German immigrants from the motherland. In 1849, Cincinnati's first singing society, Sängerbund, was formed. By 1867, the city had over 2000 Sängerbund groups. Inspired by such, Music Hall is said to have some of the best natural acoustics in the world. In addition to attending events here, such as my favorite, Idina Menzel and the Pops Orchestra, I had the privilege to take a behind-the-scenes tour of Music Hall. The prop room was massive, and the "green room" for performers was very elegant and fit for a king. Most impressive was the music library, containing shelves of sheet music dating back to the late 1800s. Of course, everyone knows the folktales of hauntings in the building. Our guide had a few first-hand experiences, with music stands moving, chandeliers crashing, and sounds of a party going on after hours in the Critics' Club. Why is Music Hall seemingly active with the paranormal? Prior to erecting the building, the land was used as a pauper's grave. Many remains were unearthed during excavation, as well as up until the 1980's when a new elevator was installed. Whether you're a local or a tourist, Music Hall should top your list of places to visit in Cincinnati, both for the architecture and for the performances inside. read more

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In spite of the impressive caffeine hangover I have, I'm really glad I spotted the event posting for the Cincinnati Coffee Festival that was held here. It was a lot of fun and I hope the music hall will host it again. The ballroom, where the festival was held looks beautiful. So many different coffees, teas, pastries, and breads! Some coming from as far as Alabama to offer samples. read more

Music Hall - Ham and gruyere croissant at the Cinci Coffee Festival! Made by Baudry French Pastries. Delicious. - Performing Arts Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

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I have been in Cincinnati for 6 weeks now and have been to Music Hall twice. Given that my preference is rock and indie music, that tells you something about Music Hall. The first time, we got free tickets from a colleague to go and watch "Love and Mozart" and I was immediately amazed by this impressive building, and in particular the chandelier! The CSO did a really good job and it was a great first experience. The second time we went was yesterday to see Lang Lang play. I had heard so much about this pianist, I just wanted to check it out. And I wanted to go back to the Music Hall, because it felt like one of the places I now knew I could go to in Cincinnati and have a great evening. Yesterday I paid more attention to my surroundings for this review. And really, there was nothing I could think of to give Music Hall anything less than 5 stars. The building itself is stunning, the stewards o so friendly, the movie before the show professional yet funny, the orchestra their usual high quality. Although we actually like the Brahms piece (without Lang Lang...) more than Liszt (Lang Lang playing), it was another great evening. I'm sure this will be one of the top places to go when we have family visiting us in the next months! read more

Music Hall - Music Hall - Performing Arts Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

Beautiful venue been to ballet s and magic shows musical s here the recent renovation really makes the architecture pop

What a beautiful and gala place to be at. We went to watch the Cincinnati ballet for nutcracker. Our seat selection was not the best. But it still did not disappoint. Ample parking around the music hall. I look forward to watching more stuff here in the upcoming year. read more

Music Hall - In front on music hall - Performing Arts Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

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Get here early to park and when inside bring some cash if you would like to try the chocolates and candies on site. I came here for the One City and One Symphony concert and just loved it. My husband and I enjoyed listening to Mozart and then Tchaikovsky's Fourth Symphony. It is so amazing to see the choir and musicians in an element they love sharing it with us in the audience. The prices are reasonably priced and I do believe that every seat is decent. We sat in the first balcony and had a wonderful view of the Hall. Having this in our downtown area is such a treat and one I hope that many people take a chance and experience. The crowd is a decent mix but on average I would say that majority of the patrons were about 20 plus years older than my husband. I tend to like to dress up at these events and always am surprised by the outfits I see. Mind you, besides enjoying what is on stage I am an avid people watcher. So seeing jeans is not out of the norm for me, but seeing a sweat suit was kinda a treat. I guess that is another reason why I like Music Hall, it is a beautiful place, wonderful productions, interacting with all walks of life and the ability to come as you are. I will definitely keep coming back. read more

Music Hall - The guide to keep you posted on all the happenings going on for November 2013. - Performing Arts Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

The recent renovation has made Music Hall even more beautiful than before. I've always thought the place was beautiful but such a great job was done on the renovation to modernize things that needed it while also keeping all the historic value of the building. I recently went for the Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone concert by CSO. It was wonderful! There is really not a bad seat in the house as far as seeing and hearing everything well. This is for sure one of Cincinnati's most beautiful historic buildings. I can't wait to go back for another event! read more

Music Hall - Performing Arts Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

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Parking is the only downfall. Of course there are plenty events to attend here, and the architecture is amazing. But the parking honey... tragic. I found $5 parking behind the venue across the street. The parking under the park was full as usual. I love the cobblestone street that music hall sits on, but my heels did not agree with this. The drinks and snacks weren't that badly priced either. Usually it's $5-10 for one small 1 oz drink at these type of venues. Here it was $3 per ounce. Still wonderfully updated and nice decor. I went to see Black Violin (google those brothas) and had quite an amazing time. Music Hall you are in my heart. I just took off a star for the annoying parking situation. But I really do love you. read more

If you live in Cincinnati and haven't been here yet then you are making a mistake. For many people I think Music Hall is one of those places that you always want to go to and never do because you tell yourself that you'll go later. Well now, don't wait any longer. I have been here for Opera, the Symphony, ballet, and the Pops. Every time I go it is amazing and I am never disappointed. The architecture itself is beautiful and worth the visit. But for a city it's size Cincinnati has an unusually talented group of musicians and performers. You can park on the street or in the Washington street garage, grab dinner/drinks in the multitude of new restaurants bars in OTR and then go to Music Hall. Don't delay, because next thing you know you will be moving somewhere else and will never have gone to see this gem. read more

Music Hall is one of the most beautiful architectural structures in the City of Cincinnati. It was built in 1878 near what used to be the main canal in Over-the-Rhine. Back in the day, the stage's audience floor was actually water and patrons could pull their boats right in to listen to the music! Now Music Hall is home to the Cincinnati Opera, the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, the Cincinnati May Festival Chorus, and the May Festival Youth Chorus. The stage is managed by the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees Union Local no. 5. All year round, there is something happening here! The Cincinnati Symphony operates from Fall to Spring and the Opera takes over during the summer. The May Festival Chorus sings with the symphony during the year but then the last 2 weekends in May is a choral marathon that is the May Festival. I grew up hanging out in Music Hall as my mother has sung in the chorus for almost 30 years. When you are bored and have access to this building, you really can learn your way around it. When I was in high school I spent four years singing with the Youth Chorus and had the privilege of being on that stage. The lobby is the second most beautiful room next to the symphony hall. It has black and white checkered floors with marble accents and a circular balcony that is centered with a gorgeous chandelier. My parents were married on that balcony. The local public radio station made a documentary about Music Hall and it's history a few years ago. In the documentary is a picture of my parent's wedding and an interview with my mother! You can obtain a copy through the local PBS station. read more

This is a beautiful old building with an excellent symphony. I attended a recent ArtsWave Young Professionals event there and it was an all around great time. If you are age 30 or less, you can buy tickets to many of the performances here for less than $20! Afterwards the conductor and the featured artist were in the lobby for pictures and questions. What I appreciated most about the concert I attended was that it began with a very well done video narrated by the conductor giving the background to the pieces that were being performed that night. It was a more succinct version of what was in the program notes and it certainly added to my appreciation of the performance which followed. On event nights, parking down the street is less expensive than parking in the garage under Washington Park. read more

This is the best venue. Gorgeous architecture and decorations. Check out he chandelier! And the Opera and CSO are fantastic. Love going to see anything in that place. I would recommend the balcony for a good view of the whole stage especially if you are short like me. In the orchestra there is always someone tall in front of me. read more

Music Hall - Performing Arts Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

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Went to the music hall last night to see Natalie Cole and the Cincinnati Pops. I really enjoyed the headliner. The facility is a classic. The chocolate covered potato chips are addicting, I am glad a serving is only 4 chips. Bring cash for the concession stand. There was a long line for beverage service before the show, I didn't care to wait. This was my first time attending a Cincinnati Pops performance. I would be interested in attending a Christmas performance as I thoroughly enjoyed the musicians they are very talented. I had a great night out. Lastly, I thought the booklet that was sent with my tickets about proper etiquette at the concert was cute. It provided great lunch time chatter at work and prevented me for singing and dancing in the aisle;) read more

Music Hall - Our view of the stage. Great seats. Orchestra row 20!! - Performing Arts Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

This place is amazing. Even if you don't have a chance to attend a concert or show, just stop by for a visit. The exterior is exquisite architecture, and it's adjacent to Washington Park (you can actually park your car under the park). Once inside, make sure you look up. The walls and ceilings are amazing. Music Hall is undergoing a renovation this summer and I can't wait to see it after the restoration!! read more

Music Hall - The beautiful ceiling of historic Music Hall. Make sure to look up when you are here. Breathtaking!! - Performing Arts Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

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I grew up going to CSO concerts in Music Hall, and since I've recently returned to my hometown, it's been a treat to be back in Elm street's grandest building for events like ArtsWave and MusicNOW. I've never actually been to an opera house in Vienna, but I always picture it as looking like Music Hall. Music Hall is such a magnificent place, from the chandelier inside the concert hall to the acoustics, to the fun wraparound balcony above the lobby. The outside facade is phenomenal and as recognizable in the city as Carew Tower or Union Terminal. It boggles my mind that in a city with a symphony/opera/arts as great as ours, that there are ever empty seats in Music Hall. To be fair, I don't get there as often as I'd like, but I'd love to start making changes to this. Thanks to my new ArtsWave pass, maybe I'll start making good on that. I loved watching the new music director, Louis Langree, conduct the CSO during the MusicNOW concert. We are so profoundly lucky to have a rich arts community for a city of our size, and Music Hall is the crown jewel in the architecture of our arts community. Accessibility notes: There are a few spots on the ground floor seating for those with mobility aids, and some accessible restrooms (though in general, I think the restrooms very much need an update, and I'm not sure if every restroom is accessible by wheelchair). Lots of ushers are available to assist patron needs. Fun fact: Did you know a relative of Jerry Springer's was responsible for creating Music Hall? The more you know! read more

Did you know that Cincinnati is one of the few US cities to have 5 permanent major performing arts groups: Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Cincinnati Ballet, Cincinnati Opera, and Cincinnati Shakespeare Company. Even more amazing: 3 of these groups regularly perform at the beautiful Music Hall. I count Music Hall as being a 'must see' for visitors - even if you just take them to see the outside with the beautiful Washington Park backdrop it's worth it! I've come to love this icon through my years of living in Cincinnati, and this year the husband and I loved the Pops season so much we became season ticket holders. Where else can you see a full orchestra perform with several bluegrass singers/bands? Music Hall is truly a gem in the city - just one more reason I love this city! read more

My mom and I recently attended performances from the Cincinnati Symphony and the Cincinnati Pops at Music Hall. We had never been before and were in awe of the outside of the building. Once we got inside we were really taken aback. The high ceilings and lights are amazing. This is truly a fantastic place to visit. The entire staff was really friendly and willing to show us around. This venue is classy, but not pretentious. I was really impressed and will definitely be back. read more

Even with the cracks in the walls and the fading paint and the other signs of age--you have completely lost your mind if you don't love this place. The history here is palpable, in a good way. It makes you proud to be a Cincinnatian; proud to live in a place that so highly (and for so many years) has valued music and the arts. The architecture alone makes it an experience...makes you want to dress up. In fact, when I see people in there in jeans, it makes me crazy. Have some respect, people! I love thinking of people coming there in their horse and buggy and big hats and fancy dresses, over 100 years ago, to come to a concert just like I am today. Yes, the seating is a bit tight, but there is going to be a massive renovation next year so I feel like it's kind of pointless to discuss any of those things at this point. If you have a chance to go--take it! read more

This world-renowned architectural gem is well known throughout the region as one of the more popular buildings in Cincinnati. Our city boasts a multitude of Italianate architecture--a style for which our city is quite famous. It is Music Hall, however, that more often than not represents this notorious bunch as the most famous prototype of Venetian Gothic. Surprisingly, the interior design is just as architecturally significant as the façade. Oversized chandeliers adorn the second floor ceilings as they drape into view from the lobby of the first floor. Its hardy and stable craftsmanship from the 19th century is apparent throughout, as the décor remains immaculate and timeless even to this day. Home to Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Cincinnati Opera, May Festival Chorus, and the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Music Hall's Springer Auditorium enjoys near-perfect acoustics and a plethora of musical activities as one of the premier performance venues in the country--rivaling The Met in New York and DAR Constitution Hall in Washington D.C. It had been as long as I could remember since I stepped foot inside of Cincinnati's "premier classical music performance hall", so when the Young Professionals Choir that I sing with scheduled a performance during the May Festival (both on the steps of this National Historical Landmark as well as inside), I was beyond thrilled. Its nostalgia, wonderful acoustics, handsome exterior, and even more gorgeous interior all provided the perfect backdrop to serenade our viewers. Having the opportunity to sing inside of Music Hall--even if just in the second floor lobby--was one of the more significant, "cool" things I will do in my lifetime. If ever the opportunity arises to view a musical performance here, I highly recommend it, if just to catch a peak of its façade up close as well as its unparalleled interior. With close proximity to the newly-renovated and esteemed Washington Park, you can plan quite the fun-filled day around visiting both. read more

My very first time at a concert was in this building. Therefore I don't really know what would make a music hall amazing or lame but I really really like the architecture. It has a very impressive interior and the size is incredible. This place is also the home of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra. I've only heard them play that one time but it was well worth the money :). What I also like about this place is you can walk around Washington Park before and after the concert. read more

Beautiful renovations throughout! A Cincinnati must-see! I can't wait to go back to see a performance. They really did a wonderful job!

Music Hall has a special place in my heart. I have been attending concerts here since I was a young child. My parents started taking me here as a child when they would attend symphony concerts. I also came here many times as part of a field trip with my school, the School for Creative and Performing Arts. Currently, I regularly attend concerts with my wife. I come here for the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra and for the Cincinnati Opera. Most concerts I have attended are in the main auditorium, but sometimes I attend events in the ballroom. I saw the fantastic opera Ainadamar with dancing in the intimate setting of the ballroom with it taking place all around the audience. The building is amazing giving every person that visits the feeling of experiencing something special. The large auditorium with excellent acoustics and a giant chandelier make for a royal setting. A wonderful experience is during intermission at a concert when standing on the balcony over the entrance hall. Listening to all the noise from the people talking is pretty neat. The view from the windows overlooking Washington Park is also nice. Even just standing out front on the big stone steps is pretty great. There are bars located inside on the sides so that you can grab a quick drink during intermission at a show. There also usually tables selling chocolates to eat. During events in the ballroom there is a bar operating and you can enjoy drinks during the event. Sometimes they have dinners that are offered at some concerts in the ballroom. Music Hall holds a lot of history in Cincinnati. There have been many different types of events here throughout history from car shows to political events to George Clinton concerts and of course symphony and opera. Enjoy your experience! read more

This is the first time back since the remodel. We were here to see the Pops orchestra, which put on a magnificent show. The remodel kept a lot of classic styling and updated seats, paint colors and the backdrop for a brighter experience. During symphony shows the ushers do limit the traffic during pieces as a courtesy to both the performers and the audience. They do allow the concession drinks to be brought to your seats, but if you arrive early they have the lobby arranged with small tables to socialize around. Students are able to get tickets to many shows for $20 which is amazing for the product they deliver. I highly encourage a stop at Music Hall for the symphony, and if you aren't wild about classical music see the Pops. Parking can be tricky but the Washington Park garage is there as well as a valet for $20. read more

Stunning architecture, amazing history, and world-class performances are just a few of the great things about Music Hall. Even if you don't actually go inside, you can still enjoy her beauty by simply strolling through Washington Park and gazing up at her glory. The acoustics are incredible, and every concert is even better than the last. read more

Total must have for this awesome city. I'm so happy that there's so much art in Downtown Cincinnati--there's really nothing like live performances. I love Music Hall because of it's convenient location (right across the park), with great restaurants like Kaze and Bakersfield OTR a couple of blocks away. The people who work at the ticket booth are super friendly and recommend the best available seats without trying to jip you off. It looks gorgeous inside, and you definitely get that classy, antique feel. My boyfriend mentioned that Anderson High School & Turpin High School used to have their graduations here, but not since they renovated the place. Interesting. Saw the opera here, which was charming, entertaining, and a night well spent. Also, saveouricons.org!! I really do hope that the music hall lasts a long time. tl;dr support music hall on saveouricons.org. Great location, really worth the time read more

Music Hall is simply a spectacular, storied venue, inside and out. The place has undergone many changes and transformations over the decades. The seating arrangements of the main Springer hall have changed, many of the windows have been filled in due to air conditioning and artificial lighting (yes the auditorium had open natural light until the 1960s). And it is set to undergo yet another transformation that will bring it into the 21st century, to begin next summer. My memories from Music Hall come from grade school trips in the early 90s, and I was just awed by the atmosphere of the classical architecture throughout, a place built in a different time for a different class of people. The place has been altered, and the neighborhood surrounding it became undesirable, but that is changing throughout, with the transformation of Washington Park, a residential and business boom in the area, and excitement for the Pops and Symphony orchestras. Besides the main auditorium, there were two halls built on the sides. The north hall once served as a sports arena, for boxing matches and basketball games - now used for studios. The south hall served as an arts exhibition hall, now the ballroom, which now features the Albee Theatre's Wurlizer Organ, where there are scheduled organ concerts. Of course, Music Hall was once Cincinnati's de facto convention center- and in the 1960s there was a plan to build a modern convention hall on the south side of the building, before they decided to build the current one (now Duke Energy Center) at 5th and Elm. read more

This place is super classy! Beautiful architecture and acoustics. Parking in Washington Square Park is very convenient now. It's the epitome of fancy theater/music venue. The chandelier is historic as well. The seats in the gallery slope slightly down, which freaks me out a little, so I recommend the balcony. read more

We've been to Music Hall for various concerts over the years, artists as varied as Mary Chapin Carpenter, the Bobs and the Cincinnati Pops. It is just an amazing location. I highly recommend getting there early and exploring. Check out the views from all of the levels. It really makes you look at different aspects of the space in a different way. As mentioned in other reviews, it is going to be closing soon for some very needed renovations. The need for these are the only reason I gave it 4 stars. I'm sure when I go back after the renovations, it will be a 5 star plus location! read more

Music Hall is an iconic centerpiece of OTR. It a wonderful piece of architecture that houses glorious music and grand events since its completion in 1878. I look forward to the finishing of the construction of Washington Park which is immediately across from Music Hall and the complete $157 million dollar overhaul of Music Hall. These will enhance this marvelous building and help with the revitalization of OTR. read more

I find myself at Music Hall at least once a year or so and it never ceases to be amazing. The awe-factor of the gorgeous architecture has yet to wear off - and I hope it never does. It's all about the little details! The auditorium itself has great acoustics and almost every seat is a good one. I only recommend that if it's a more visually-based performance that you are careful about your seating (and, this only applies to seats on the sides and seats behind row 27) as there are a few pillars that can get in the way. Otherwise, every seat is excellent. Having the redone Washington Park in front of Music Hall not only adds to the experience getting to the building, but also has pretty great parking underneath. Though, I still prefer to park in OTR as I like to grab dinner/drinks before or after shows and because - honestly - walking through the park just adds a romantic element to it, especially when it's all lit up at night. I highly recommend seeing at least a few shows here - the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra are delightful and the visiting performers I've seen here have been fantastic as well. It's hard to pick a favorite! Music Hall is truly one of the best. read more

Think back to a time when people were refined and celebrated high society. Think back to an era when everything was gilded and sparkling with gold leaf and cut crystal. Think back to a period when culture was a benchmark for a city's prominence. Music Hall is Cincinnati's Grand Dame and harkens back to another time when people dressed in their finest silks and velvets to take in opera, the symphony, the ballet and other cultural endeavors. Thankfully, modern day Cincinnati is still chock full of culture vultures who eat up Music Hall with a spoon. The monstrous, red brick building on Elm features a massive, antique chandelier that is reminiscent of Phantom of the Opera. The lofty ceilings are trimmed in beautiful molding and gilded carvings, and guests are invited to sink down in plush (but a bit narrow) velvet seats. A word to tall folks, you might want to strive to get an aisle seat, as these rows offer the audience little leg room. If you're swinging by the bar for a cocktail during intermission and find yourself in need of cash, head upstairs to the bar/restroom area to take advantage of the PNC ATM. And beware of the ghosts - they say this place is haunted with souls from yesteryear. In fact, it reportedly stands on a cemetery. You've been warned. read more

Music hall is an iconic music hall in Cincinnati that features both a rich history and a gorgeous setting to view classical works of art. The aesthetics of the building combine with fantastic acoustics to give you a world class setting to listen to some of the most famous classical works of art ever created. The chandeliers are amazing, the staff is friendly and welcoming, and the Cincinnati symphony orchestra is impressive. We have seen the symphony, chamber orchestras, ballet and the pops at this venue. Each time, we were captivated by the performance and it was enhanced by the beauty of the hall. If you are watching piano, be sure to sit off-center so that you have a great view of the performer's hands. We would recommend you consider street parking as it will be free, but get there early. read more