Music Settlement seeks city support as $12M Gries House rehab nears construction
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Summary
The Music Settlement told the council committee it will expand instruction space by 50% through a $12 million rehab and addition to the Gries House, has raised over $10.1 million and seeks help with community outreach and partnerships to increase access and aid.
The Music Settlement asked the Health, Human Services and Arts Committee to note a major capital project intended to increase the organization's instructional capacity and community programming.
Representatives described a project to rehabilitate the historic Gries House and construct a complementary addition on the University Circle campus to increase teaching spaces from 28 to 42. The organization said the work will improve acoustics for percussion, jazz and pop ensembles, add a technology lab with digital audio workstations, and create a community-facing outdoor music patio.
The Settlement highlighted its reach: in fiscal year 2025 it reported roughly 1,200 on-site music education and music therapy clients, about 1,600 off-site students, and said 51% of participants were from historically underrepresented communities. The group said it provided more than $500,000 in financial aid last year and that 44% of students received some assistance.
On finance and schedule, the presenter said the total project budget is about $12,000,000, that more than $10,100,000 had been raised before construction documents were finalized, and that the Mandel Foundation had contributed $3,300,000 and will name the facility the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Music House. The group said it has received Landmarks Commission approval, is pursuing permits and hopes to break ground in April or May 2026 with a roughly 13-month construction timeline.
Council members pressed on affordability and access. Jeff Brown of the Center for Music said tuition varies by program (for example, a 30-minute private lesson full price was reported as $35 for a 36‑week year; a 60‑minute lesson $70), and that financial-aid packages can reduce costs up to 90% (a $70 lesson could cost $7 after discount). The Settlement noted some entirely free classes and instrument-loan programs for community participants.
The organization asked the committee for help amplifying outreach, particularly to seniors and neighborhoods that have not been reached by digital advertising. The Settlement also said it had hired a community engagement manager to distribute materials and build relationships with libraries, schools and rec centers.
The committee did not take formal action. The Settlement said it will follow up with the chair and staff about potential city introductions and outreach opportunities ahead of construction.