Until very recently, Mariano Salcedo, a fourth-year MIT student majoring in artificial intelligence and decision-making, was set on applying for a computer science master's program. But then he laid eyes on the magnificent Edward and Joyce Linde Music Building, which opened this fall for select classes. "Now, instead of computer science, I'm considering the master's program in Music Technology, offered here for the first time next year," Salcedo shared. "The decision is undeniably tied to this building and what it represents about music at MIT."

An Architectural Masterpiece with a Powerful Impact

Scheduled to fully open in February 2025, the Linde Music Building makes a bold and elegant visual statement right from the start. Its impact, however, will be most strongly felt through the music it produces. Every element of the facility, from the Thomas Tull Concert Hall to the performance and rehearsal spaces, classrooms, and even the stainless-steel metal panels forming the conic canopies, has been meticulously designed to create an ideal musical environment.Students are already reaping the benefits of the building's ideal acoustics and customized spaces. Within its thick red-brick walls, they delve into a wide range of music-related subjects, from Electronic Music Composition to Conducting and Score Reading. Various musical groups, such as the MIT jazz combos, Balinese Gamelan, and Rambax Senegalese Drum Ensemble, are exploring and enjoying their new and improved homes."For many at MIT, music holds a special place in our hearts," noted MIT President Sally Kornbluth. "And this new building now places music at the very core of the campus. Its exceptional practice and recording spaces provide our musicians with the tools they deserve, while the beautiful performance hall will draw audiences from across campus and the community who love live music."The Need and the SolutionMusic has always been an important part of MIT life. Each academic year, over 1,500 students enroll in music classes, and more than 500 participate in on-campus ensembles. However, until recently, there was no centralized facility for music instruction or rehearsal. Practice rooms were scattered and poorly insulated, and there was no suitable space for large performances."It would be challenging to teach other subjects in spaces designed for music," said Jay Scheib, recently appointed section head for Music and Theater Arts. "In the past, we managed, but it limited us. With the new music building, just like with our theater building, it will inspire our students and musicians and allow them to experience their music as intended. It will also bring people together to exchange ideas and perspectives.""Music-making from different traditions is growing rapidly at MIT, both in performance and academics," added Keeril Makan, associate dean for strategic initiatives. "In this building, we aimed to create a space where all forms of music could coexist. It wasn't easy, as different music types require different conditions, but we took the time and effort to make spaces that support all musical genres."The idea of a music epicenter at MIT is not new. For decades, planners and administrators studied various plans and sites. In 2018, with support from Joyce Linde and with SANAA selected as the architectural firm, the project took shape."MIT chose SANAA because their architecture is beautiful and they understand the importance of acoustics," said Vasso Mathes, the senior campus planner. "They brought in the world's leading acoustics consultant, Yasuhisa Toyota, to ensure the best possible sound environment."Where Form Meets FunctionBuilt on a former parking lot, the Linde Music Building is a stunning example of form and function. Designed by Kazuyo Sejima and Ryue Nishizawa of SANAA, the three-volume red brick structure seamlessly integrates with the natural and built environments of MIT's West Campus.One of the standout features is the acoustic design by Nagata Acoustics. The Beatrice and Stephen Erdely Music and Culture Space offers exceptional acoustic insulation, with alternating curved wall panels that reflect and absorb sound. The Thomas Tull Concert Hall, with a maximum seating capacity of 390, features gently rising rows and a retractable curtain, providing adaptable and exquisite sound conditions.Classrooms, rehearsal spaces, and technical spaces in the Jae S. and Kyuho Lim Music Maker Pavilion are also equipped with state-of-the-art sound systems. With sustainable methods and materials used throughout, the building features radiant-heat flooring, LED lighting, and a green roof.While acoustic concerns drove the design, beauty was not overlooked. Architects and builders found ingenious ways to infuse elegance into the spaces. "We wanted a building that is both functional and beautiful, where people can enjoy creating and listening to music," said Sejima.New HarmoniesWith a limited opening for classes this fall, the Linde Music Building is already buzzing with creative activity. Workshops for classes like 21M.030 (Introduction to Musics of the World) are in full swing. Music technology students are honing their skills in digital instrument design and electronic music composition."It's exciting to be able to take classes in a space dedicated to music and music technology," said Mariano Salcedo. "Working in spaces specifically designed for musicians is a wonderful experience."The building will not only benefit MIT musicians but also enrich the campus experience for students in all fields. "Music courses have always been popular, and now students have brand-new, beautifully designed spaces for performance and instruction," said Anantha Chandrakasan. "It will also provide opportunities for students to build community and innovate across disciplines.""This building encapsulates the breadth of our students' interests," said Melissa Nobles. "It will strengthen our music community and attract new people."The Linde Music Building has also inspired faculty. "Now faculty can use these amazing spaces for research," said Makan. "The offices are studios with acoustic treatments, and musicians and music technologists can work here." Makan is composing a piece for solo violin to be premiered in the Thomas Tull Concert Hall next year.Agustín Rayo expects the building to have an impact beyond MIT. "This building brings incredible resources to our music program and creates opportunities to connect with the Boston area," he said.February Open House and ConcertThe MIT Music and Theater Arts Section plans to host an open house in the new building on February 15, 2025. The MIT community and the public are invited to enjoy an afternoon of activities and performances. A series of concerts will follow throughout the spring, details available at the Music and Theater Arts website.