The rehabilitation of the reflecting pool at Kleinhans Music Hall in Buffalo has been completed, according to an announcement from Governor Kathy Hochul. The newly restored feature, now named The Stenclik Family Reflecting Pool, is part of a larger $15 million renovation aimed at preserving the National Historic Landmark and enhancing its role as a cultural center.
Governor Hochul stated, “Kleinhans is one of the finest concert halls in the world. People come for the music and events but are often drawn to the reflecting pool, which is a selfie hotspot in Buffalo. By investing in this cultural and architectural gem, we ensure it will continue to contribute to the quality of life and economic vitality of the region for decades to come. I look forward to seeing residents and visitors enjoy the fine arts and culture that New York has to offer.”
The state contributed $9 million toward these upgrades. Kleinhans Music Hall, located on Symphony Circle, was built in 1939 by architects Eliel and Eero Saarinen. It serves as home for organizations such as the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, Just Buffalo Literary Center’s BABEL Author Series, and Buffalo Chamber Music Society. The venue hosts over 150 events annually with approximately 150,000 attendees.
The hall also provides performance opportunities for local students: all Buffalo Public School students from kindergarten through fifth grade attend performances there each year—about 24,000 children—with another 16,000 students from across Western New York visiting annually.
The reflecting pool sits on the eastern side of Kleinhans Music Hall and wraps around the Mary Seton Room. Originally filled in during 1956 before being recreated in 2001, it was recently rehabilitated by draining, resurfacing, and relining its 17,000-square-foot structure. The pool holds three inches of water during warmer months; it is drained each fall to prevent damage from freezing temperatures.
