On Thursday, NAU proposed a $15 million, 26,863-square-foot recital hall expansion and renovation project to the Arizona Board of Regents, and it passed with flying colors.
The project, located between Ardrey Memorial Auditorium and the Performing and Fine Arts building, will include a 250-seat recital hall, a choral rehearsal room, an instrumental rehearsal room, a choral library, an instrumental library and a lobby space.
“Because of existing acoustic and logistical problems that are impacting the quality of music education at NAU, we wanted to create a performing and fine arts complex that increases the stature and allure of NAU for prospective students, local audiences, faculty members and guest performers,” President Rita Cheng said.
“With hopes of becoming the cultural center of the university, community and region, the improved performance and music facility will not only impact NAU students, but will better serve the needs of faculty, community members and local school children.”
The project, which will be funded by bonds and fundraising gifts, will break ground later this month, with an estimated completion date of October 2018.