Resources & Facilities
The Alma Thomas Fine Arts Center, the building that houses the Sarofim School of Fine Arts, recently underwent a major renovation that completely transformed the Alma Thomas Theater and Instrumental Rehearsal Hall, along with new music rehearsal and teaching spaces.
The facilities re-opened in November 2007 and were dedicated in March 2008. Music Department performing spaces comprise the 725-seat Alma Thomas Theater, equipped with an acoustic shell, orchestra pit and two Steinway concert grands, and the Caldwell-Carvey Foyer, with another Steinway grand piano, for more intimate recitals. Other spaces include a rehearsal hall for the Orchestra, Wind Ensemble and Jazz Ensemble, a music technology lab, classrooms, teaching studios, and practice rooms.
There are more than a dozen grand pianos in the Fine Arts complex, including several for free student use and practice. The Aeolian-Skinner organ in the Lois Perkins Chapel, a gift of Mrs. J.J. Perkins, is also available for student lessons and practice. The Music Department also possesses a collection of orchestral instruments. Instruments may be checked out to individual students with the prior consent of the appropriate ensemble director.
