At the end of the 20th Century, the Free Trade Hall, long the principal venue for classical music in the city, was replaced by the newly built Bridgewater Hall. It is a first class buiding for the purpose in all respects. The auditorium will seat 2,400 people in great comfort and the seats are precisely angled so that all point directly at the centre of the orchestra. The air conditioning system runs under the seats. Built in a busy traffic area, it is secured against vibration by being built on 270 huge springs. The acoustics are stunningly good.
This is the home of the famous Hallé Orchestra and also of the BBC Philharmonic
And the Chamber Orchestra, Manchester Camerata.
This is not, however, the only venue for Classical Music in Manchester. The Royal Northern College of Music has a full programme of Chamber Music with famous ensembles visiting as well as some fine productions of their own.
Finally there is the Opera House in Quay Street, once closed as uneconomic, which now seems to enjoy success as the venue not only for opera but for musicals and dance performances.