a lakefront sanctuary for the musical arts
Pick-Staiger Concert Hall stands as the North Shore’s premier concert venue, where exceptional acoustics meet the natural beauty of Lake Michigan on Northwestern University’s Evanston campus. Pick-Staiger Concert Hall is located on the shore of Lake Michigan on Northwestern University’s Evanston campus and is known for its outstanding acoustics, offering an intimate 1,003-seat performance space that has become a cornerstone of Chicago’s classical music scene.
Overview
Pick-Staiger Concert Hall (1975) hosts major orchestral, band, and choral performances. Construction was made possible by gifts from Albert Pick Jr. and Charles G. Staiger. The hall was donated by hotel executive Albert Pick Jr. and his brother-in-law Charles Staiger, and named for Corinne Frada Pick, Pick’s wife, and Albert Pick’s sister, Pauline Pick Staiger.
The concert hall features 30 adjustable “sound cloud” reflectors that control the strength and projection of sound throughout the hall and help performers hear one another onstage. Programming includes orchestral, wind ensemble, jazz, folk, world, and contemporary music as well as solo recitals and master classes.
Getting There
Located along Arts Circle Drive, just south of the Norris University Center, Pick-Staiger Concert Hall is easily accessible on Northwestern University’s lakefront campus. The main lobby entrance for concerts is on the west side of the building. You can drive all the way up to the entrance for guest drop off.
For public transportation, take the CTA Purple Line to the Evanston-Davis or Main Street stations, then connect to campus shuttle or a short taxi ride. The venue is easily accessible by car via Lake Shore Drive, Sheridan Road, or Chicago Avenue.
We recommend arriving 30 minutes before curtain to allow time for parking and enjoying the beautiful lakefront campus setting.
Parking
Free parking is available at the Northwestern University Lakeside Parking Structure, conveniently located at 1 Arts Circle Drive. This parking garage provides easy access to the concert hall and is complimentary for concert attendees.
Additional parking is available throughout the Northwestern campus, with accessible parking available on a first-come, first-served basis for those requiring special accommodations.
Dining
Downtown Evanston offers a vibrant dining scene within easy reach of Pick-Staiger Concert Hall, with numerous restaurants along Sherman Avenue, Davis Street, and surrounding areas. The downtown district features everything from casual cafes to upscale dining establishments, many offering pre-theater menus.
Many venues are within walking distance of campus, and the tree-lined streets make for a pleasant stroll between dinner and the performance. The combination of Northwestern’s lakefront campus and Evanston’s sophisticated dining scene creates an ideal setting for an evening of world-class music.
