The center serves as the home base for the Lehigh University Philharmonic, one of the oldest collegiate orchestras in the United States.
The facility was designed by the architectural firm Dagit-Saylor and opened in 1997.
Baker Hall features an adjustable acoustic shell that can be modified based on the size and type of the musical ensemble performing.
The center contains over 100,000 square feet of space dedicated to both academic classrooms and public performance venues.
It is centrally located on Lehigh's campus, physically bridging the gap between the academic quad and the residential halls.
Zoellner Arts Center is the primary performing arts facility for Lehigh University, situated on its Asa Packer Campus in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. The venue features multiple performance spaces, including the 1,000-seat Baker Hall, the proscenium-style Diamond Theater, and the black-box Black Box Theater. It hosts a diverse range of programming, including the Lehigh University Philharmonic, jazz series, professional touring acts, and student-led productions. The building functions as an interdisciplinary hub for the university’s Department of Music and Department of Theatre. The facility includes professional-grade rehearsal spaces, costume shops, and scene shops to support academic instruction and public performances. Architectural features include extensive glass curtain walls and an atrium designed to integrate the building into the hillside topography of the South Mountain campus.
The main glass-enclosed atrium, particularly during sunset, which captures the campus hillside view.
Check the digital event calendar in advance, as public performances occur throughout the academic semester.
Arrive early to view the rotating visual art exhibitions displayed in the lobby galleries.
Use the dedicated parking garage located adjacent to the building for easiest access.
Assuming there is daily open access to all performance halls, as many areas are restricted to students and staff when not in use for scheduled events.
Operations generally follow the Lehigh University academic calendar, with reduced programming during summer and winter breaks.
Business casual is standard for evening performances; avoid flash photography during professional shows.
