Renovated for our large ensemble rehearsals, Esber Rehearsal Hall now holds classes like band and orchestra, in addition to courses such as music methods and conducting. During the evening and weekends the space is used for non-degree recitals, masterclasses, and even the occasional big band swing dance.
About Esber
Built in 1963, the hall was home for the Department of Music’s student recitals. A Holtkamp organ, Opus 1793 , a central fixture of Esber Recital Hall, was dedicated on June 15, 1963. The organ was a gift of the Penn State alumni class of 1938 in honor of the class’s 25th reunion. The 400-seat hall hosted thousands of concerts and recitals open to the students and community members. W.E. Esber, owner of W.E. Esber Rugs in State College, also loved Austrian Bösendorfer pianos, so much so, that he gifted two Bösendorfer pianos to the School of Music. To honor his brother, George, Mr. Esber provided funding for improvents to the space in the late 90’s, giving the 30 year old hall a new name. In 2016, the Esber family once again honored their father’s commitment to the school by providing funding for the rehearsal hall upgrades. The Holtkamp organ was purchased by a local church in 2018 and relocated.
Today, Esber Rehearsal Hall is used heavily seven days a week. The space has a sprung floor, acoustic panels on the walls, and an acoustic curtain which improves the sounds of the 1963 cement block room. An adjoining space was also built to accomodate storage for our ever growing collection of percussion instruments. The hall has a large projector screen which is used for instructional purposes as well as Zoom calls with composers and artists during masterclasses and rehearsals. The Bösendorfer piano with extended keyboard, a gift of Mr. Esber, remains in the room for rehearsals and performances.
Parking
The School of Music’s Recital Hall, Esber Rehearsal Hall, and Olsan-Stone Terrace, are located near the northwest corner of the campus, and visitor parking is available at the Nittany Parking Deck for an hourly rate. ALL SURFACE LOTS ON THE UNIVERSITY PARK CAMPUS ARE RESERVED. Please use one of the parking decks designated for visitors.
Patrons with mobility impairments may be dropped off in front of the Music Buildings at Allen Road. Handicap-accessible parking spaces are available in the Nittany deck. State-issued disability parking placards are required for access to the handicap-accessible parking spaces.
Tickets
Tickets
Most of the 300+ performances annually are free of charge and open to the public. The bands, choirs, orchestras, and other designated performances may have an admission charge. These fees help cover the operating costs of the Recital Hall and provide modest resources for our ensembles to purchase or rent music that is performed in the concerts.
Box Office
Tickets are availble throught the Arts Ticket Center in advance or at the Recital Hall Box office, one hour prior to the start of the performance.
Contactless ticketing
We can send your tickets to you via text message or email. When you arrive at the venue on the day of a performance, you can scan your own ticket. Pedestals will hold the scanners. You just need to place your phone (or printed ticket) under the scanner. The scanner will light green and instruct you to “GO,” at which point you can continue to your seat. If it doesn’t indicate “GO,” a staff member near the pedestals will assist you.
Audience Information
Lost and Found
Please contact the School of Music at 814-865-0431 about lost or found articles.
Cameras, Cell Phones, and Recorders
Please turn off electronic devices during the performance. Audio and visual recording devices are not permitted in the auditoriums. Uploading video and/or audio recordings of any portion of a performance to social media sites such as FaceBook, Instagram, or YouTube violates copyright law and is prohibited.
Backpacks, Handbags, etc.
Penn State reserves the right to inspect all items being brought into performance venues. During certain events, additional restrictions might be implemented at the discretion of facility management. Questions? Ask an event staff member on the day of a performance.
Late Arrivals and Early Departures
Latecomers and patrons re-entering the house during a performance will be seated at the discretion of the house manager. If you must leave the house during a performance, please do so at an appropriate time.
Food and Beverages
Food and Beverages are not permitted inside the Recital Hall.
Emergency Services
If an evacuation is warranted, Recital Hall staff will make an announcement and provide instructions and assistance to patrons.
No Smoking
Smoking is not permitted in facilities.
Accessibility
Special Needs
We’re committed to making the arts accessible to all patrons. Wheelchair seating is available in Recital Hall. A number of appropriately located seats have been reserved for patrons with disabilities. For hearing-impaired patrons, Recital Hall is equipped with an infrared listening system. Publications, including performance programs, are available in large-print or alternative media upon request prior to the event.
Penn State encourages persons with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation or have questions about the physical access provided, please contact the Schol of Music in advance of your participation or visit.
Parking
The School of Music’s Recital Hall and Olsan-Stone Terrace is located near the northwest corner of the campus, and visitor parking is available at the Nittany Parking Deck for an hourly rate. ALL SURFACE LOTS ON THE UNIVERSITY PARK CAMPUS ARE RESERVED. Please use one of the parking decks designated for visitors.
Patrons with mobility impairments may be dropped off in front of the Music Buildings at Allen Road. Handicap-accessible parking spaces are available in the Nittany deck. State-issued disability parking placards are required for access to the handicap-accessible parking spaces.
