Texas Tech University

Celebrating Hemmle Recital Hall: Innovation Unveiled

Anna K.

October 4, 2024

Image of Hemmle Recital Hall House

After almost 50 years since its opening, Hemmle Recital Hall will have its grand reopening of the renovated space on Saturday, October 5, featuring the Texas Tech University Symphony Orchestra and faculty soloist, David Dees.

If you walked into Hemmle Recital Hall in the 70s and entered three years ago, the hall would look the same. After many years of little to no updates, Hemmle Recital Hall is now a state-of-the-art facility. Designed to seat 532 people, the hall offers an intimate atmosphere that enhances both acoustic quality and audience experience.  


In collaboration with BRW Architects, Vaughn Construction, and TTU Operations, this multi-million-dollar renovation officially started in the Spring of 2022. Today, its unique architectural features allow for excellent sound distribution, making it an ideal space for solo and ensemble performances. Those in the audience may notice some similarities to the Buddy Holly Hall – Crickets Theater. The aesthetics of the hall are modernized with new lighting, flooring, wall design, and seating. The hall’s stage is now framed by acoustic panels and a reflective surface overhead. Automated sound-absorbing curtains surround the stage and are also set within the side walls of the hall.

Image of Hemmle Recital Hall Stage

Photo Credit: Karina Dozal 

 

 

 

 

 

Fostering Music Education and Performance 

The hall is more than just a performance venue; it plays a crucial role in supporting music education at Texas Tech. Although used for rehearsals and concerts, it is also frequently used for masterclasses, lectures, and workshops, providing invaluable learning opportunities for students. The presence of the hall reinforces the university’s mission to promote the arts, allowing music students to thrive both academically and artistically. 

Honoring Our Educators 

The hall is named after Gene Hemmle, chair of the Texas Tech Music Department from 1949-1973. Hemmle was known for his innovative teaching methods and dedication to music education, significantly expanding the university's band, choir, and orchestra programs. His commitment to excellence in music education shaped the careers of many students, many of whom have become successful educators and performers. The naming of Hemmle Recital Hall has served as a lasting tribute to his contributions, symbolizing Hemme’s enduring impact on the university's music program.

 
One of the hall's most notable assets is its 1964 Holtkamp pipe organ. The organ features multiple ranks of pipes, offering a rich and diverse tonal palette suitable for various musical styles, including classical, sacred, and contemporary genres. After its donation in 1977, the organ did not receive proper care and unfortunately fell into disrepair by the turn of the century.  In 2012, led by the Director of the School of Music at the time, William L. Ballenger, a significant campaign was launched to renovate the organ. In honor of Director Ballenger’s dedication to the School of Music, the organ was renamed the Ballenger Grand Holtkamp Organ. 

Image of University Symphony Orchestra Rehearsing in Hemmle Recital Hall

Photo Credit: Gabriela Nord

A Commitment to Community Engagement 

Through its commitment to music education, performance, and community involvement, Hemmle Recital Hall will continue to play a vital role in the artistic life of Texas Tech University and Lubbock. As a premier venue for music, it will remain a cherished resource for students, faculty, and community members alike, celebrating the transformative power of music. 


The grand opening of the renovated hall is on Saturday, October 5 at 7:30 PM. With its program titled Innovation Unveiled, the Texas Tech University Symphony Orchestra will perform 20th- and 21st-century works under the baton of Lanfranco Marcelletti Jr. In our interview with Maestro Marcelletti, he shared with us his excitement of the program and the concert. This event is free and open to the public.