LINCOLN, NE — As construction advances on the new Westbrook Music Building at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, the installation of seats in the new Kimball Recital Hall marks a key milestone as the project moves toward its anticipated opening in May. The building, funded by the Nebraska Legislature through LB 384, is revitalizing the southwest corner of the university's City Campus, providing a modernized, state-of-the-art facility for current and future students of the music program.

Recently, the Hixson-Lied Alumni Board had the opportunity to tour the construction site and get a firsthand look at the progress. Board members were able to see the interior layout of the new spaces, including the Kimball Recital Hall, which is designed to offer an acoustically rich environment for performances, lectures, and other events. The space will be a significant upgrade from the previous facilities, providing a more comfortable and professional setting for both students and the public.

A State-of-the-Art Facility for Music Students

The Westbrook Music Building, once completed, will house several advanced facilities designed to enhance the learning and performance experience for students in the university’s music program. The building will feature a range of performance spaces, including the highly anticipated Kimball Recital Hall, as well as rehearsal rooms, classrooms, and studios designed to accommodate various music disciplines. These spaces are equipped with cutting-edge technology and acoustics to support a wide range of musical performances and educational activities.

"The new building will be an essential part of the music program here at the University of Nebraska," said a spokesperson for the project. "The upgraded facilities will allow us to offer an even higher quality of education and performance opportunities for our students."

Reinvigorating the City Campus

The project is a major part of the university’s ongoing effort to revitalize the City Campus. Located in the heart of Lincoln, the new building is expected to be a landmark that will not only serve the university community but also engage the wider public by hosting performances and events that showcase student talent. The Westbrook Music Building is part of a larger initiative to modernize various academic buildings on campus, making the university a more attractive and functional place for learning, creativity, and cultural events.

A Collaborative Effort

The construction project, which began with the legislative approval of LB 384, has been a collaborative effort involving the Nebraska Legislature, the university administration, faculty, and local contractors. The project’s design emphasizes sustainability, with energy-efficient features incorporated into the building’s layout to reduce its environmental impact. This focus on sustainability aligns with the university's broader goals of reducing its carbon footprint and promoting green building practices.

Looking Ahead: A Future of Music and Innovation

Once the Westbrook Music Building opens in May, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln will offer an enhanced environment for its music students to develop their craft. The building will also serve as a cultural hub for the university and the Lincoln community, drawing in audiences for concerts, recitals, and educational events that showcase the diverse talents of students.

With the completion of the Westbrook Music Building, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln is poised to provide even greater opportunities for its students, fostering the next generation of musicians, composers, and educators who will contribute to the cultural landscape of Nebraska and beyond.

Originally reported by University Communication and Marketing in Nebraska Today.