Mizzou breaks ground on new School of Music building

The University of Missouri held a groundbreaking ceremony for its new School of Music facility at Memorial Union Sunday afternoon.

The ceremony was moved inside due to weather concerns.

The UM Board of Curators approved the first phase of the building project in December 2016. The new facility will be built at Hitt Street and University Avenue.

The first phase of the project includes academic and rehearsal spaces, a recital hall and outdoor performance venue.

The university has secured $24 million for the first phase of construction, which includes a $10 million donation from Jeanne and Rex Sinquefield, of Westphalia.

The School of Music is working to secure additional private fund for phase two of the project, which will include more academic space and a 500-seat concert hall.