A Look at Oberlin’s Next Performance Venue

Birenbaum Space intended to unite campus and community.

August 24, 2016

Julie Gulenko '15

Upon the completion of the gleaming new Hotel at Oberlin this summer, construction began underground for the conservatory’s latest venue: the William and Helen Birenbaum Innovation and Performance Space. A meeting and teaching space, a jazz club, and an intimate concert hall in one, the subterranean facility was designed to link the creative energies of the conservatory, college, and community. Take a look at the aerial blueprint of the sleek space and progress photos taken on August 12, 2016.

Photos by Julie Gulenko '15.

interior of Birenbaum under construction. — Take the stairs or an elevator down to the Birenbaum Innovation and Performance Space. If you choose the elevator, this is (roughly) what you’ll see when you enter the venue. (Notice the wall on the left side of the image that separates the entrance from the urbane cocktail lounge.)

interior construction of Birenbaum Space. — Another view of the bright and airy stairwell. A convenient way to enter the space just east of the intersection at East College Street and Rt. 58!

interior construction. — While this space doesn’t look like much right now, it will soon become the green room for the venue. This photo was taken from the spot that will soon become a classroom by day and performance space by night!

Michel Debost, Legendary Flute Professor and Performer, Dies at 92

May 6, 2026

French-born master launched a wealth of standout Oberlin musicians as a 22-year member of the faculty.

Concerto Competition Celebrates Student Achievement and Campus Spirit

May 6, 2026

In fall 2025, four musicians advanced through preliminary and final rounds, the latter adjudicated by an external panel of respected names in the industry. Their prize: the opportunity to perform a solo work with one of Oberlin’s orchestral ensembles, conducted by Raphael Jiménez.