The sheer volume of musical talent within the Holy Cross community was on display in the newly renovated Brooks Concert Hall on Jan. 30 for a dedication concert celebrating the space. Students, faculty and alumni entertained a standing room only crowd with a wide variety of musical performances.
The renovation of Brooks Concert Hall, named for former president of Holy Cross, the late Rev. John E. Brooks, S.J., ’49, was made possible by donations from the Class of 1953. Three members of the class were in attendance at the concert.
For their 60th Reunion, members of the class contributed more than $500,000 in gifts and pledges for the renovation, which included, among other improvements, reorientation of audience seating and enhanced lighting. The effort was led by gift co-chairs William F. Glavin, John T. Magnier, Francis X. Stankard and class chair Rev. Earle Markey, S.J., associate director of Admissions. A plaque in recognition of the generosity of the Class of 1953 now hangs beside the portrait of Fr. Brooks outside the hall.
Fr. Brooks was instrumental in expanding the cultural offerings at Holy Cross, particularly in music. The full-tuition Brooks Music Scholarship is awarded annually to one high school senior, who will major in music. Applicants must demonstrate outstanding accomplishment in the area of instrumental/vocal performance or composition, as well as significant academic achievement. Fr. Brooks also commissioned the College’s award-winning Taylor and Boody Organ, designed in the tradition of 16th and 17th century Dutch and north German organs, which was completed and dedicated in 1985.
“How pleased Fr. Brooks would be to see how creatively this space has been reconfigured and decorated as a venue for musical performances,” said Rev. Philip L. Boroughs, president, in his introductory remarks.
View the music program (PDF).
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Photo Gallery: Students, Faculty and Alumni Celebrate New Brooks Concert Hall With Dedication Concert
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