St. Louis Symphony Orchestra Thanks Workers

Photo by Sam Fentress

There’s been widespread media coverage of the opening of the $140 million Jack C. Taylor Music Center at Powell Hall, including in places as far as New York ( New York Times Article ).  Much more is sure to follow. Powell Hall has always been known for its outstanding acoustics, but with the extensive revamping of the existing building (which has actually improved acoustics) and the addition of significant new and boldly designed program space, it must now be considered among the world’s great concert halls.

It has been a labor of love for the BSI Constructors team and our subcontracting partners, motivated in large part by the visionary and enthusiastic leadership of St. Louis Symphony Orchestra (SLSO) President and CEO Marie-Hélène Bernard. On October 8th, the SLSO hosted a very special evening of thanks for those involved in designing and building the project. While not the norm, appreciation events for project teams do occasionally happen. However, this one set a new standard! The more than 750 attendees, including both those involved in the construction as well as their families, were given a unique opportunity to personally witness the fruits of their labors. The highlight was certainly the specially curated concert performed by the world famous SLSO that included something for everyone. It closed with an appearance by “guest conductor” Mark Wellen (below) leading the Symphony in the St. Louis Blues March. Mark was actually BSI’s Senior Project Manager for the construction and, with no prior experience nor musical talent whatsoever, surprised the audience (and the orchestra) with his unique and energetic conducting style.

Thank you, SLSO, for this incredible evening and for the opportunity to be part of this transformational project!