Avangrid Foundation Donates $400,000 to Eastman School’s Kilbourn Hall

Largest gift in Foundation history to Eastman School of Music made on behalf of AVANGRID subsidiary RG&E for renovations

Rochester, NY – Avangrid Foundation’s gift of $400,000 toward renovation of historic Kilbourn Hall is music to the ears of the University of Rochester’s Eastman School of Music.  Avangrid Foundation, which is the leading funder for the renovations to the historic building, made its donation on behalf of its subsidiary Rochester Gas and Electric (RG&E).

The Avangrid Foundation is dedicated to supporting projects and organizations that enhance the quality of life in communities served by AVANGRID companies. Among other Rochester area programs supported by the Avangrid Foundation are the Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival and the Rochester Museum and Science Center.

“I’m pleased to say that our commitment to the renovation of Kilbourn Hall is our largest-ever single gift in the Rochester community, and it is fitting that it should go to one of Rochester’s most treasured and enduring institutions,” said Robert Kump, president of the Avangrid Foundation. “Kilbourn Hall is one of Rochester’s cultural jewels, and this renovation will ensure that the community can enjoy it for years to come.”

The renovation plans will preserve the venue’s unparalleled acoustics while enhancing the audience experience through seating, lighting, and stage upgrades. Refurbishments will take place in the summer of 2016 and the hall will reopen for the 2016–2017 academic year.

In addition to serving as the primary location for Eastman’s faculty, student, and guest artist recitals, the 444-seat hall plays host to the Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival and the First Niagara Fringe Festival and has welcomed legendary artists such as Itzhak Perlman, Ron Carter, and Dave Brubeck. Considered one of the finest chamber music halls in the world, Kilbourn’s fine acoustics also make it a frequent choice for commercial recording sessions.