Orchestra Hall

Orchestra Hall is a concert hall in downtown Detroit featuring distinctive limestone architecture with Art Deco details throughout. The interior uses a fan-shaped design that was engineered specifically to carry sound effectively to all areas of the auditorium.

The hall was built in 1919 under architect C. Howard Crane and later served as the Paradise Theater starting in 1941, hosting many jazz performers for over a decade. This period shaped its connection to Detroit's music heritage.

The hall is home to the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, which performs regularly and forms the center of the city's musical life. Performances range from symphonic concerts to chamber music, creating a gathering place for music lovers.

The hall sits on Woodward Avenue and is easily reached by public transit, being located in a well-connected neighborhood. It is helpful to arrive early to explore the venue and surrounding architecture before or after a concert.

The building was saved from demolition in the 1960s when a community initiative successfully raised funds for complete restoration. This rescue project made it a symbol of cultural revival in the city.

Location: Detroit

Inception: 1919

Architects: C. Howard Crane

Official opening: 1919

Architectural style: Beaux-Arts

Website: http://detroitsymphony.com

GPS coordinates: 42.34875,-83.05930

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:58