Stavanger Concert Hall | Stavanger

Information

Landmark: Stavanger Concert Hall
City: Stavanger
Country: Norway
Continent: Europe

Stavanger Concert Hall, Stavanger, Norway, Europe

The Stavanger Concert Hall is a modern cultural institution located on the waterfront in Sandvigå, Stavanger, Norway. It serves as the primary venue for the Stavanger Symphony Orchestra and hosts a variety of musical performances and events.

Visual Characteristics

The structure features a contemporary architectural style, characterized by a prominent glass facade facing the fjord and a combination of concrete and wood elements. It comprises two main halls: the Fartein Valen concert hall, designed for symphonic music, and the multi-purpose Zetlitz hall. The building's exterior reflects the surrounding environment, while interiors utilize wood for acoustic and aesthetic purposes.

Location & Access Logistics

The concert hall is situated at Sandvigå 1, approximately 1.5 kilometers north of Stavanger city center (Vågen). Access is via Sandvigå road. An underground parking garage, Konserthuset P-hus, is located directly beneath the building. Public transportation is available, with several Kolumbus bus lines stopping at the "Konserthuset" bus stop, providing direct connections to the city center and surrounding areas.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the Stavanger Concert Hall was completed in 2012, with the official opening on September 15, 2012. The building was designed by HRTB Arkitekter AS. Its original purpose was to provide a state-of-the-art facility for the Stavanger Symphony Orchestra and to serve as a major cultural hub for the region, accommodating diverse musical genres and conferences.

Key Highlights & Activities

Attending classical concerts by the Stavanger Symphony Orchestra is a primary activity. The venue also hosts pop, rock, jazz, and world music performances. Conferences, theatrical productions, and other cultural events are regularly scheduled. Guided tours of the facility, including backstage areas and the main halls, can be arranged by prior appointment.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The facility provides multiple restrooms on all public levels. There are designated cloakroom services. Food and beverage options include the restaurant Spiseriet and several bars located within the building. The entire venue offers reliable 4G/5G cell phone signal and public Wi-Fi access. The building is fully accessible for individuals with mobility impairments.

Best Time to Visit

The optimal time to visit is during scheduled performances, typically in the evenings. For architectural viewing and photography, daytime hours offer natural light reflecting off the glass facade and fjord. The concert season generally runs from late August to early June, with specific events occurring year-round. No specific tide requirements affect access or viewing.

Facts & Legends

The Fartein Valen hall features adjustable acoustic elements, allowing the sound profile to be tailored for different types of performances, from intimate chamber music to full orchestral works. This flexibility is a key design aspect, ensuring optimal sound quality for a wide range of musical expressions.