Storyboard: Los Angeles Master Chorale

The Master Chorale first moved into the historic Dorothy Chandler Pavilion in the early 2000’s, adapting what was originally a ballroom on the fifth floor, into office space. Their staff met challenges with exceptional flexibility as the team grew over the years to make the space work.

When President and CEO, Scott Altman came to the Master Chorale in 2023, he had a vision to create a renewed working environment that truly reflected the prestige and caliber of the exceptional vocal chorale the organization serves.

While the space is voluminous, it isn’t large, and the dense program needed to fit efficiently into the relatively small footprint. 

Now, four cantilevered, curved soffits dominate the space. The visual play of materials, walls, and lighting were inspired by the often used half circle shape of the chorale, juxtaposed with the irregular dancing curves of their home venue the Disney Concert Hall just across the street.. From floor to the 14’ ceiling, curves relating to the shape of the building and then lilting away with playful gestures.

The custom solid white oak wood fins that loosely define the break room and huddle spaces, again give a nod to the half circle chorale, but this time bring in a building column detail seen spanning ground to roof just outside the curtain wall windows–bringing tons of natural light into the entire space, rather than just a few private offices.

On the Original Design
“In conceptualizing the approach to the Pavilion, the architects and designers of Welton Becket & Associates were guided by the idea that the building must not show its back to any part of the city, and, hence, developed the concept of a pavilion. A massive, curved structure with stylized columns, a gently swooping flat roof and a glass façade, the Pavilion was designed to fulfill the functions of three major halls, including a symphony with the accordant acoustics; a grand opera, which requires a sizable stage and house; and a more intimate setting supported by an appropriate sound system or orchestra for light opera, ballet and similar presentations. Like the great music and performances, it would house, the Pavilion’s design reflects elegance and beauty while being contemporary and understated.”  –The Music Center

Learn more about the LA Master Chorale and check out the touring schedule on their website.