Manchester Stoller Hall

Nestled within the vibrant Chetham's School of Music, The Stoller Hall in Manchester is more than just a concert hall; it’s a sanctuary for sound, a testament to acoustic excellence, and a vital hub for the city’s rich musical tapestry. While Manchester boasts a formidable reputation for its rock and indie heritage, The Stoller Hall carves out its unique niche through an unwavering dedication to intimate, world-class musical experiences. This is a venue where the purity of sound reigns supreme, meticulously engineered to immerse every audience member in the very essence of performance. From the hushed reverence of classical recitals to the dynamic energy of contemporary artists, The Stoller Hall offers an unparalleled sonic journey, establishing itself as a cornerstone of Manchester’s cultural landscape for discerning music lovers.

The story of The Stoller Hall is intrinsically linked to its prestigious parent institution, Chetham's School of Music. Established in 1969 as the UK’s first specialist music school, Chetham's occupies the historic buildings of Chetham's Library, the oldest public library in the English-speaking world, founded in 1421. The vision for a dedicated, state-of-the-art performance space within this hallowed musical environment began to crystallize over decades. The Stoller Hall itself is a relatively modern addition, opened in 2017, but its foundations are built upon the centuries-old tradition of musical education and innovation housed within the Chetham’s complex.

The architectural brilliance of The Stoller Hall is central to its identity. Designed by Stephenson Studio, the hall's defining characteristic is its exceptional acoustic profile. The space is a masterpiece of acoustic engineering, featuring specially designed wooden slats on the walls and ceiling that control reverberation and create a warm, enveloping sound. The materials used were carefully selected to enhance sonic clarity and projection, ensuring that every note, every nuance, is delivered with pristine fidelity. This meticulous attention to acoustic detail means that whether it's a solo piano performance, a chamber ensemble, or a vocal recital, the sound is perfectly balanced, allowing the music to breathe and connect directly with the audience. The hall’s design prioritizes intimacy, with a seating arrangement that brings performers and listeners closer than in many larger venues.

The Stoller Hall’s cultural impact is defined by its commitment to nurturing and showcasing a diverse range of musical talent within an acoustically superior environment. Its opening marked a significant enhancement to Manchester's live music offering, providing a dedicated space that prioritizes sound quality and an intimate audience experience. Unlike many larger venues in the city that often lean towards amplified rock or pop, The Stoller Hall has cultivated a reputation for presenting classical music, jazz, folk, and world music with a level of detail and clarity that is rarely matched.

Its role as an integral part of Chetham's also means it serves as a performance platform for exceptionally gifted young musicians, offering them invaluable experience on a professional stage. This synergy between a world-class training institution and a high-calibre performance venue is a unique aspect of The Stoller Hall’s identity. It fosters a cycle of musical excellence, where aspiring artists hone their craft in the shadow of legendary musical history, and seasoned professionals find a venue that respects and elevates their artistry. This focus on sonic purity and intimate engagement distinguishes it from many other venues in the North West.

The Stoller Hall's relatively young age means its history is still being written, but its commitment to world-class performances has already seen it host an array of remarkable artists and memorable evenings. Its Unique Selling Proposition (USP) is undeniably its unrivaled acoustic design, creating an intimate sonic sanctuary where music is experienced with absolute purity and clarity. This focus on the auditory experience elevates every performance.

Here are some of the iconic performances and legendary nights that have graced The Stoller Hall:

• Isata Kanneh-Mason (2019): The prodigious pianist, a member of the renowned Kanneh-Mason musical family, delivered a breathtaking solo recital that showcased her profound musicality and the hall's exquisite piano acoustics.
• Kronos Quartet (2022): The legendary string quartet, known for their boundary-pushing collaborations and diverse repertoire, captivated the audience with their signature intensity and the hall's ability to convey every subtle texture of their performance.
• Gwilym Simcock & Kit Downes (2021): This collaboration between two of the UK's most exciting pianists offered a masterclass in improvisation and intricate musical dialogue, perfectly amplified by The Stoller Hall's sensitive acoustics.
• Manchester Collective (various dates): As resident ensembles, the Manchester Collective, a dynamic group of young string players, have consistently delivered electrifying performances of both classical masterpieces and contemporary works, highlighting the hall’s versatility and the collective’s virtuosity.
• A Celebration of Women in Music (2023): The hall has hosted numerous events dedicated to showcasing female composers and performers, fostering a more inclusive musical landscape and demonstrating its commitment to diverse programming.

The Stoller Hall is committed to providing an accessible and enjoyable experience for all its patrons.

• Wheelchair Access: The venue is fully wheelchair accessible. There are ramps and lifts to all public areas, including the auditorium, foyer, and toilet facilities. Dedicated wheelchair spaces are available within the auditorium.
• Assistance Animals: Assistance dogs are welcome in the venue. Please inform the box office when booking your tickets so arrangements can be made.
• Hearing Assistance: Induction loops are available for those with hearing impairments. Please enquire with front-of-house staff upon arrival.
• Visual Impairments: Guide dogs are welcome. Large print or braille versions of programmes may be available upon request; please contact the box office in advance.
• Seating: While most seating is fixed, the venue can accommodate specific seating needs. Please contact the box office to discuss requirements, such as proximity to exits or specific viewing angles.
• Accessible Toilets: Accessible toilet facilities are available on the ground floor.

It is highly recommended that patrons with specific accessibility requirements contact the box office in advance of their visit to discuss their needs and ensure the best possible experience.

• Door Times: Doors typically open 30-60 minutes before the advertised start time of a performance. Please check your ticket or the venue's website for specific timings for your event.
• Age Restrictions: Most events at The Stoller Hall are suitable for all ages, but specific performances may have age recommendations or restrictions. Please check the event details on the venue's website or your ticket. Chetham's students often perform, and it is a family-friendly environment.
• Bag Policy: Small bags are generally permitted. However, for security reasons, large rucksacks or luggage may not be allowed into the auditorium. It is advisable to travel light.
• Security: For the safety of all visitors and performers, security staff will be present. Patrons may be subject to bag checks.
• Photography: The use of flash photography, video recording, and professional cameras is generally prohibited during performances to avoid disturbing artists and other audience members. Please respect the performers and your fellow attendees.