In a significant move, the Sarasota Orchestra's Board of Directors has announced the selection of William Rawn Associates (WRA) as the architect for their highly anticipated Music Center. This decision marks a pivotal moment in the orchestra's journey to establish a world-class performance venue that will serve as a cultural hub for the community.

Unlocking the Harmony of Sarasota's Musical Landscape

A Collaborative Vision Takes Shape

The Sarasota Orchestra's Music Center will be located at 5701 Fruitville Road, just east of downtown Sarasota, Florida. Boston-based firm William Rawn Associates will collaborate closely with executive architect HKS and Stages Consultants, who will handle the critical aspects of acoustics and theater planning. This dynamic team of experts will work in tandem to bring the orchestra's vision to life, ensuring that the new facility not only meets the highest standards of performance but also seamlessly integrates with the surrounding community.

Acquiring the Perfect Harmony of Space

In April of last year, the Sarasota Orchestra acquired a 32-acre site valued at $14 million, with the intention of establishing a new music and arts destination. The property, located just off Fruitville Road, lies within a bustling commercial area, offering the orchestra an opportunity to create a vibrant cultural hub. Initially, the orchestra explored building a new facility in Payne Park, near downtown Sarasota, but when that option proved unfeasible, the search for an alternative site began.

Designing for Acoustic Excellence

The Sarasota Orchestra's vision for the Music Center includes an 1,800-seat main performance hall, a 700-seat flexible space for chamber music and special events, and multiple rehearsal rooms. These features were carefully considered to ensure the creation of an exceptional acoustic experience. As Sarasota Orchestra President and CEO Joe McKenna explained, "You need cubic volume of space to create that acoustic, and that's really done by the width and height of the building."

A Landmark in Florida's Cultural Landscape

The Sarasota Orchestra's Music Center will be one of only four dedicated acoustic concert halls in the state of Florida. This distinction underscores the significance of the project and the orchestra's commitment to elevating the region's cultural offerings. Alongside the Music Center, design work is also underway on the Sarasota Performing Arts Center, a waterfront building that will be designed by renowned architect Renzo Piano.

Selecting the Ideal Architectural Partner

In the process of selecting an architecture firm for the Music Center, the Sarasota Orchestra's Board of Directors sought a collaborative partner with a proven track record in designing exceptional performing arts venues. William Rawn Associates, with its exemplary portfolio and commitment to an "artistic vision," emerged as the ideal choice.

Bringing the Vision to Life

With William Rawn Associates on board as the design architect, the Sarasota Orchestra can now begin to envision the tangible reality of their Music Center. The firm has already attended concerts and events, met with the orchestra's board, senior staff, local arts leaders, and other key stakeholders, ensuring that the input of the Sarasota Orchestra musicians will play a crucial role in the ongoing planning process.

Towards a Harmonious Future

As the concept development phase unfolds, William Rawn Associates will work to establish the overall direction and visual identity for the Music Center, while HKS, the executive architect, will oversee the transition from design to construction. The Sarasota Orchestra hopes to have an initial design concept in early 2025, marking a significant milestone in their journey to create a world-class performance venue that will serve as a beacon of artistic excellence and community engagement.