Florence Harkness Memorial Chapel is a historic and valuable building and should be treated with the utmost respect. Use of University facilities by entities other than the University or recognized student organizations requires a University-approved lease or license agreement executed in accordance with the University's policies for contract approval. In addition, individuals and organizations using University facilities are required to comply with all applicable university policies.
Reasonable charges, including overhead for the use of space and related equipment, services, or amenities may be made to users of university facilities.
Responsible Party
Department of Music facilities should be utilized for activities, meetings, gatherings, and functions consistent with the registered purpose of the organization. Any unauthorized use of space is prohibited. Under no circumstances can music equipment be transported or used outside of the facility. All persons using space or equipment shall be responsible for their own safety and shall be solely responsible for anticipating, knowing, and taking all necessary precautions relative to working with such equipment. All appropriate measures and usage practices must be followed, including building policies, and equipment manufacturer guidelines. The Responsible Party assumes all risk of property damage and liability for any and all costs associated with any claims, actions, or damage(s). Disregarding regulations and any resulting damages will be billed to the individual or group separately from the rental agreement.
Know ahead of time
- Reference the Buildings + Access page for building policies
- No special or extensive setup: equipment or structures that require construction in the building or on its property, use of ladders or lifts, water features, etc.
- No outdoor setup: tables, tents, or booths placed on grounds
- Provide a list of equipment: supplied by outside vendors or personal items brought into the venue
- Using the piano: the Steinway grand piano is available for use by professional musicians
- Historic keyboards: the harpsichords and organ are not to be touched and cannot be removed from the stage
- No tossing rice, birdseed, confetti, or live flower petals: faux flower petals (interior) and bubbles (exterior) are permitted
- Electrical outlets are limited in number: two outlets are located on the stage and along the wall where the chairs/stands are stacked.
- Event Security: The Department of Music will notify Division of Public Safety about the opening and closing times for an event. Event security is strongly recommended for events of more that 50 guests.
- Student event staff: members of our student event staff work events in Harkness Chapel at the rate of $20/hour. Staffing is only provided during the academic year and depends on the availability of our team members. Student staff members are often on-site to monitor building operations; regard for their authority is expected.
- Safety Protocols: University Health and Counseling Services is committed to protecting the health and well-being of our campus community. Find the latest guidelines and COVID-19 resources on the UH+CS Respiratory Viruses page.
Receptions
- Food inside the building is expressly prohibited without the direct permission from the Department of Music.
- If permission is granted, small receptions can be set up inside the main foyer on hard floors.
- No food or beverages (except sealed water bottles) allowed in the main performance hall; absolutely no alcohol permitted.
- Event hosts may bring their own refreshments, but before exiting the venue, all trash must be thrown away with the garbage bags placed outside in a designated area. Otherwise, custodial fees will be charged in the amount of $60/hour.
- For special services, please contact Nicholas Strawn, Performance and Operations Assistant.
Before leaving the venue
- Remove all items (programs, equipment, decorations, personal belongings, etc.) at the end of the event.
- DO NOT leave keyboard instruments over the stage air vents.
- Lock and cover the piano. Return it to stage right and parallel to the wall (do not block the backstage door).
- Neatly rack music stands/chairs and return them to the side vestibule.
- Return all desks (in the classroom) to their original location.
- Dispose of all trash in the proper receptacles. Food waste should be cleaned up.
- Turn off all the lights.
- Shut and lock the internal doors and windows.