The ASU Kerr Cultural Center hosts a diverse annual season of jazz, classical, world music, storytelling and theater in this one-of-a-kind performing arts venue.
This season features the popular Jazz in AZ concert series, classical music stars Ying Quartet and Ang Li, Latin world music luminaries Las Cafeteras, Grammy-winning classical guitarist Jason Vieaux, globetrotting African/world music duo Kinobe and Jaja, and the critically acclaimed theater works “Meena’s Dream,” “An Iliad” and “Borrowed Time.” Kerr is a division of Arizona State University Gammage.
“Every season at Kerr is meticulously curated, showcasing international-level artists and local stars in beautifully intimate performances,” says ASU Kerr General Manager Tracey Mason. “The up-close-and-personal nature of a Kerr show is a rare treat.”
Built in 1948, the original house was part of 47 acres owned by Louise Lincoln Kerr, daughter of John C. Lincoln. Louise Kerr was a noted violist, ethnomusicologist, composer and one of the first women invited to join the Cleveland Symphony Orchestra in 1913.
Her performance room, known as The Studio, was built in 1959 and was Kerr’s intimate space for practicing, performing and enjoying music with talented friends. She invited artists from around the world to work on their craft in her home. Driven by a hospitable desire to provide practice and performance opportunities for musicians, Kerr constructed guest houses on the property to board visiting artists. Her vision was to cultivate an artists’ colony.
Kerr’s personal touches abound throughout each building. The Studio and home are made of adobe bricks that were poured and dried on her land. Each unique sugar pine door was hand carved by Tucson artist Charles W. Bolsius. Sidelights made from beer bottles line the main door’s frame.
Kerr helped co-found and develop The Phoenix Symphony, Scottsdale Center for the Arts, The National Society of Arts and Letters, The Bach and Madrigal Society, and The Phoenix Cello Society. Kerr was a major benefactor to the ASU School of Music. After her death in 1977, she bequeathed her Scottsdale property and structures to ASU with the condition that the space would continue to be a home for music.
In addition to being a world-renowned historic music venue, ASU Kerr is also available for affordable private rentals, which include access to professional sound and lighting, staff and amenities.
