November 2026 No. 23

2025-2026 Annual Impact Report

This year was one of both progress and possibility for Friends of Music Hall.

We invested in the preservation of this extraordinary landmark, welcomed thousands of people through tours, talks and performances, created new community partnerships and completed a strategic plan that will guide our work for the next three years.

At the center of it all are people: the donors who invest in Music Hall’s future, the volunteers who bring its stories to life, the partners who help us reach new audiences and the guests who walk through its doors.

As Music Hall approaches its 150th anniversary, our work takes on even greater meaning. We are grateful to everyone helping us preserve its past while ensuring that it remains vibrant, relevant and welcoming for generations to come.

Welcoming Six New Leaders to the

Friends of Music Hall Board

We are delighted to welcome six new members to the Friends of Music Hall Board of Directors. Each brings unique professional expertise, community connections, and a shared commitment to preserving and promoting Music Hall for future generations. We are grateful for their leadership and look forward to the contributions they will make in advancing our mission.

Click here to read more about our new board members.

Enjoy a Glowing New Blog

Shedding Light on the Illuminating History of Music Hall

Let’s shed some light on the history of lighting in and on Music Hall and Cincinnati, from the city’s first gas light installation in 1843 to the slow acceptance of electricity and the incandescent light bulb, and to the city’s first festivals in lights. Music Hall could claim the city’s first BLINK in the nineteenth century! This is the story of how Music Hall learned to shine.

Coming soon, Friends of Music Hall will reveal new exterior state-of-the-art lighting of Hannaford’s High Victorian Gothic façade.

Happy Holidays with the

Mighty Wurlitzer

Friday, December 4, 2026

7:00 p.m.

Music Hall Ballroom

Presented by Friends of Music Hall, Happy Holidays with the Mighty Wurlitzer returns with an enchanting "The Night Before Christmas"-themed concert. Step into the magic and nostalgia of the holidays and let this musical celebration become part of your family's annual tradition.

This spectacular evening brings together an exceptional lineup of talent, anchored by featured organist Richie Gregory. This accomplished musician is a two-time competitor in the ATOS Young Theatre Organist Competition and serves as Associate Organist at the Ohio Theatre. Watch this video interview with Richie as he shares details about playing the Mighty Wurlitzer and this year’s Holiday Concert.

Adding a dynamic visual rhythm to the night, (CA)² x Soul Syndicate will present a choreographic blend of Hip Hop Street dance and Contemporary movement, delivering intricate floor work and vivid storytelling set to classic holiday songs.

The musical celebration continues with the Music Hall Holiday Chorus under the direction of Jason Alexander Holmes, Associate Director of Choruses of the May Festival. This festive ensemble unites local community and church choirs with professional singers for a joyful, harmonious sound reflecting the very spirit of Cincinnati. Guiding audiences through this evening of community, dance, and song is returning emcee Kyle Inskeep, the popular WKRC news anchor who brings his signature warmth, wit, and cheer to the Music Hall stage. Join us for an unforgettable night.