Severance Hall

Severance Hall is a concert venue in University Circle featuring Art Deco design with white limestone walls and Egyptian Revival decorative elements. The interior showcases marble columns and ornamental details that flow through multiple performance spaces and ceremonial areas.

The building was completed in the 1920s after John Severance dedicated his wealth to fund this music venue during a period of economic hardship. His substantial investment allowed the arts to thrive at a moment when resources were scarce throughout the region.

The hall has become the home of the Cleveland Orchestra, whose performances define the cultural life of the region for classical music enthusiasts. Visitors can experience how the space draws people from across the area for concerts that shape the local arts community.

Visitors can join guided tours that showcase different areas including the main concert space, formal lobbies, and smaller chamber rooms. Tours provide good access to the building's layout and help you understand the acoustic design without attending a performance.

A major restoration project near the end of the 20th century recovered the original architectural details while significantly improving the hall's acoustic performance. This work demonstrates how contemporary knowledge of sound can preserve historic character without compromising listening quality.

Location: Cleveland

Architects: Walker and Weeks

GPS coordinates: 41.50640,-81.60940

Latest update: December 7, 2025 19:27