The first phase of restoration of Norfolk’s historic Music Shed is finished. The new cupola, an exact copy of the original copper-domed cupola that has been missing for so long that no one remembers when it fell down, was installed in time for Memorial Day weekend, and restores the natural ventilation system of the original building. Completed work also includes a new roof, new siding and the restoration of the original balusters and decorative woodwork on the outside of the building.

The new cupola on the day of its installation. A railing in the Chinese Chippendale style will surround the square base.

The Music Shed has served as the principal venue for the Norfolk Chamber Music Festival and the Litchfield County Choral Union since 1906. Designed by American architect E. K. Rossiter, and modeled after New York’s original Steinway Hall, its beautiful redwood interior has been described by The New York Times as “an acoustic marvel”. Many of the world’s greatest performers and composers have appeared on its stage.

Paul Hawkshaw, director of the Norfolk Festival said, “In the first phase we wanted to ensure the preservation of the Music Shed long term by securing the perimeter of the building. I don’t think anyone in their wildest dreams imagined that it would turn out so beautifully.”

Further work will include refurbishing the interior of the building. New restrooms, staircases, windows and doors are all planned, as is replacing the music studio annex at the north end of the building.

Samuel “Pete” Anderson, one of the three trustees of the Ellen Battell Stoeckel Estate, made particular note of Hawkshaw’s important role in the ongoing work of “rejuvenating this elegant, but slightly faded old lady in the valley–not just new clothes for the Music Shed, more like a heart transplant, bringing her into new life as she settles into her second century.”

Photos by Bruce Frisch.