Sage Gateshead – A Music Centre Rooted Deeply in the North

The Sage Gateshead is an iconic music venue located in Gateshead, England. It is part of the Gateshead Quays development, which also includes the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art and the Gateshead Millennium Bridge. The Sage is known for its striking modern architecture, world-class acoustics, and diverse range of musical performances.

History

The Sage Gateshead was opened in 2004, after almost a decade of planning and construction. The venue was designed by the renowned architect, Sir Norman Foster, and is considered to be one of his most significant works.

The Sage was built with the intention of creating a world-class music venue that would serve as a hub for musical performance, education, and outreach in the North East of England. The venue was also designed to be accessible to all, with a range of spaces that could accommodate a diverse range of events and activities.

Architecture

The Sage’s architecture is one of its most striking features. The building is made up of three interlocking spaces, each with its own unique identity and purpose.

The first space is the Concourse, which serves as the main entrance and foyer of the venue. This space is open and welcoming, with large windows that allow natural light to flood in. The Concourse also features a café, a bar, and a gift shop.

The second space is the Hall One, which is the main performance space of the Sage. This space is a large, rectangular room with a seating capacity of 1,700. The design of Hall One is based on the traditional shoebox shape, which is renowned for its excellent acoustics.

The third space is the Hall Two, which is a more intimate performance space with a seating capacity of 400. Hall Two is designed to be flexible, with movable seating and a stage that can be reconfigured to accommodate a range of musical genres and performance styles.

The Sage’s architecture is not only visually stunning but also functional. The building’s acoustics are widely regarded as some of the best in the world, making it a popular destination for musicians and performers from all over the globe.

Performances

The Sage Gateshead hosts a wide range of musical performances throughout the year, including classical, folk, jazz, world, and electronic music. The venue is known for its commitment to showcasing emerging artists and promoting musical education and outreach.

The Sage’s resident orchestra is the Royal Northern Sinfonia, which performs a range of classical and contemporary music throughout the year. The venue also hosts a range of festivals and events, including the SummerTyne Americana Festival, the Folkworks Hexham Gathering, and the Young Musicians Programme.

The Sage’s commitment to musical education and outreach is evident in its extensive programme of workshops, classes, and events for people of all ages and abilities. The venue also has a dedicated Learning and Participation team, which works with schools, community groups, and individuals to provide musical education and support.

Dining

In addition to its musical offerings, the Sage Gateshead also has a range of dining options. The venue’s café serves a range of light bites, sandwiches, and cakes, while the bar offers a selection of beers, wines, and spirits.

For a more formal dining experience, the Sage’s restaurant, called ‘Pantry’, offers a range of seasonal, locally sourced dishes. The restaurant has a relaxed, informal atmosphere and is the perfect place to enjoy a pre-concert meal or a leisurely lunch.

The Sage Gateshead is a world-class music venue with a rich history, stunning architecture, and a commitment to musical education and outreach. Its excellent acoustics and diverse range of musical performances make it a destination for musicians and music lovers from all over the world.