Texas Southern University (TSU) has officially reopened the Charles P. Rhinehart Music Auditorium, unveiling a stunning $3.5 million renovation that revitalizes a cornerstone of the university’s musical heritage. The long-anticipated reopening, marked by a celebratory concert, showcased performances from TSU alumni and current music ensembles, affirming the university's commitment to the arts and cultural legacy.

Closed since 2016, the iconic auditorium now features significant upgrades including state-of-the-art audio-visual systems, powered seating, new flooring, an enhanced stage, and a modernized green room for performers. The renovation also added a conference room and strategically placed televisions in the lobby and backstage areas, allowing seamless viewing access throughout the venue.

Originally constructed in the 1940s as a synagogue for Congregation Adath Emeth, the building was acquired by TSU in 1958 and transformed into a music performance space. It later became the namesake of Dr. Charles P. Rhinehart, a renowned pianist and faculty member who served the university from 1951 until 1978. Dr. Rhinehart was also the first African American student to enroll at the University of Houston, where he earned his doctoral degree.

The reopening event included performances by TSU’s Choir, Wind Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble, and a special opera workshop dedicated to longtime vocal professor Bernadine Oliphint. Alumni recording artists Melvin Johnson and Raul Blanco also returned to the stage, underscoring the deep musical roots cultivated within the walls of the Rhinehart Auditorium.

Now equipped with 21st-century amenities and streaming capabilities, the 300-seat venue is poised to once again serve as a vibrant hub for performances, education, and cultural enrichment. Its intimate setting and enhanced acoustics position it as one of Houston’s premier spaces for artistic expression, reaffirming TSU’s role as a leader in arts education and community engagement.

Looking to explore more of TSU's cultural milestones?