Jones Hall opened in October 1966 and still looks like the future its architects imagined: white Italian marble, towering columns and a lobby where Richard Lippold's shimmering sculpture Gemini II floats overhead. Inside, the ceiling is made of 800 hexagonal panels that can be raised or lowered to change the hall's acoustics. It is home to the Houston Symphony, now in Juraj Valcuha's fifth season as music director. Fall 2026 brings a Rachmaninoff festival with pianist Yefim Bronfman, Dolly Parton's Threads (Oct 30 to Nov 1), Very Merry Pops in December and Handel's Messiah (Dec 18 to 20). Dress is whatever you like; the music does the dressing up.
What to expect
- The Theater District garage has an $18 flat event rate and a tunnel into the hall.
- Validate your ticket in the Louisiana lobby for 20% off at One Market Square garage.
- Latecomers are seated at breaks the conductor picks, so arrive before the downbeat.
- Children 6 and up are welcome at most concerts; Family Series shows take all ages.
- No photos or recording, and phones stay off during the music.
What to do
- A classical subscription concert
- Messiah in December
- A POPS night for film or Broadway music
- October 2, 1966Opened
- About 2,900Seats
- 800 movable hexagonal panelsCeiling
- Gemini II by Richard LippoldLobby art