Grand Rapids Community College

Albert P. Smith Music Center and Linn Maxwell Keller Performance Hall

The original building was constructed in 1922 and served as a physical education facility for Strong Junior High School, and then Grand Rapids Junior College. It was first renovated for use by the Music Department in 1980. This latest renovation includes a new 100-seat performance space (The Linn Maxwell Keller Performance Hall) with flexible seating and stage, recording studio, private studios, teaching studios, practice rooms, classrooms, and an informal gathering and study area.

ABD Engineering and Design worked with AECOM to provide complete acoustical analysis of existing spaces marked for re-use and a variety of new spaces. The design required engineered recommendations for Room Acoustics, Noise Isolation, and Mechanical Noise Control specifically tuned for performance, and teaching. Our consultants created designs to handle the demanding acoustical needs of spaces that would be in constant flux – changing from one use to another throughout the day, and throughout the year.

“The project has created a space where music students can make connections and explore their talent.”
“The renovations to the Music Center will allow our students to practice, rehearse and collaborate in a much friendlier and student-centered environment. The innovative acoustic modifications and sound transfer mitigation have created practice rooms and teachings spaces that truly meet the demands of professional musicians.”
“This warm and inviting space is not only beautiful to behold but also acoustically tunable, allowing us to modify the acoustics for a variety of soloists, performing ensembles, and every genre of music.”
– Professor Kevin Dobreff, Music Department Program Director.

GRCC is currently the only community college in Michigan with a music department that is an accredited NASM member.

Photos courtesy of AECOM.