Concerts in Rackham Auditorium

Experience Rackham Auditorium

Rackham Auditorium, located on the central campus of the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, is a renowned performance venue steeped in history. Completed in 1909 with funding from Horace and Anna Rackham, the auditorium was designed by William B. Biggs in a Neoclassical style, boasting a grand marble interior and exceptional acoustics. Its 2,578 seats are arranged in a horseshoe shape, providing excellent sightlines from nearly every location.

Originally intended for university lectures and commencement ceremonies, Rackham quickly became a hub for musical performances. It has hosted countless celebrated artists across diverse genres including classical music (the Detroit Symphony Orchestra frequently performs there), jazz, world music, and choral performances – notably serving as a primary venue for the University Musical Society (UMS).

Unique to Rackham is its massive Casavant Frères pipe organ, one of the largest university-owned organs in the United States. The auditorium’s architectural details – including intricate plasterwork and stained-glass windows – contribute to its majestic atmosphere. Beyond concerts, it hosts lectures, theatrical productions and remains a significant cultural landmark within Ann Arbor and the wider Michigan arts community.