2025

Arkansas Symphony Orchestra Stella Boyle Music Center

After nearly 60 years of renting space, the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra opened what CEO Christina Littlejohn believes is the only facility that belongs entirely to the orchestra it serves. The 20,000 square-foot, state-of-the-art building seeks to provide a radically welcoming hub of musical activity for all Arkansans, serving youth and adults of all ages. The building will provide access to music education, music performances, and music making through new spaces and a broadcast and recording studio. The building is designed with two wings divided by a central lobby and lounge area. One side houses the administrative offices for the orchestra's 15 staff members, four practice rooms and two classrooms for the orchestra's educational arm, the E. Lee Ronnel Music Academy. This space allows orchestra members to give private and group lessons. The other side of the building features Morgan Hall with space for instrument storage (including the orchestra's 9-foot Steinway piano), a mother's/quiet room, a catering kitchen, and a fully operational recording studio. The center was designed by Witsell Evans Rasco Architects and built by Bailey Construction. The center is a strong presence in the East Village at 1101 E 3rd Street, and in keeping with Arkansas’ rich tradition of music creators, the Stella Boyle Smith Music Center aims to inspire appreciation for all kinds of music, be an accessible resource for those learning the craft, and help cultivate the next generation of music creators.