The Michigan State University Board of Trustees, MSU President Lou Anna K. Simon, Roy Simon and James Forger, dean of the College of Music, are hosting a gala celebration and dedication concert marking the renovation of the Byron and Dolores Cook Recital Hall on Oct. 12 in MSU's Music Building.
The dedication honors lead donors to the $5 million renovation project, Byron and Dolores Cook, from Greenville, Mich., alumni, longtime friends and supporters of MSU and the College of Music. Dolores (Dee) Cook served as MSU Trustee for 16 years. Both of the Cooks are charter members of the College of Music National Leadership Council.
Formerly called the Music Building Auditorium, the venue has served as the heart of performance life in the College of Music for more than 70 years. Since April 2012, this intimate and historic venue has been undergoing a complete updating that brings the space in line with the professional performance standards of the twenty-first century. Plans developed by a national team of architects and acousticians envision an environment that will significantly enhance the quality of the listening experience and deliver greater comfort and additional amenities to patrons.
"It's an enormous step for the college," said Dee Cook, "and Byron and I are just thrilled to be a part of that step. I just invite everybody to come and share the joy of the performances and share the beauty of this brand new facility. Through their extraordinary performances, the students and faculty of the College of Music provide a window to the quality of the whole university."
The extensive renovation includes new seating, acoustical treatments, the installation of air conditioning and improved heating and ventilation systems, state-of-the-art audio/visual capabilities, new lighting and warm wood finishes throughout.
"It shows what a difference two individuals can make," Forger said, "because this sort of thing does not happen unless there are people that are willing to step up and say 'this is important,' and provide financial leadership. Two people in this instance – Dee and Byron Cook – have made a tremendous difference that will serve generations of students."