The history of Macky Auditorium dates back to 1906, when Andrew J. Macky, a prominent businessman and philanthropist, donated money to the University of Colorado to build a new auditorium. Construction began in 1910, and the building was completed in 1917. Over the years, Macky Auditorium has hosted a wide range of events, from classical music concerts to Broadway shows to political rallies.

One of the most striking features of Macky Auditorium is its stunning architecture. The building’s exterior is made of sandstone and features a blend of Gothic, Romanesque, and Renaissance styles. The interior of the auditorium is just as impressive, with ornate plasterwork, stained glass windows, and a stunning chandelier that weighs over a ton.

But perhaps the most impressive aspect of Macky Auditorium is its acoustics. The auditorium was designed to be a world-class concert hall, and it boasts some of the finest acoustics of any venue in the world. The hall’s design allows sound to travel evenly throughout the space, ensuring that every seat in the house has a perfect view and a perfect listening experience.

Today, Macky Auditorium is home to the University of Colorado’s College of Music, and it continues to host a wide range of performances and events throughout the year. From classical music concerts to jazz performances to theater productions, there is always something exciting happening at Macky Auditorium.

In addition to its rich history and stunning architecture, Macky Auditorium also has some fun facts that visitors might enjoy. Here are just a few:

• The auditorium’s chandelier is made of 4,000 pieces of crystal and weighs 2,500 pounds..
• The auditorium has a seating capacity of 2,047.
• Over the years, Macky Auditorium has hosted many famous performers, including Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, and Yo-Yo Ma.

There have also been instances of non-performance at Macky. Someone managed to reach the top of the towers in 1953 by climbing the walls without any assistance. Students for a Democratic Society threw lighted cigarettes, folding chairs, and a bottle at S. I. Hayakawa during a riot at one of his lectures in 1969. A sold-out Neil Young concert was attempted to be crashed in 1971 by several hundred rowdy students, who broke the glass in the foyer doors and resisted police using fire hoses.

In conclusion, if you’re a music or arts lover, a visit to Macky Auditorium Concert Hall on the CU Boulder campus is a must. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and world-class acoustics, this iconic venue is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits.