The Bridgewater Hall is Manchester's premier international concert hall and a masterpiece of modern acoustic engineering. Opened in 1996, the building is suspended on 300 giant springs to isolate it from the noise and vibration of the city outside. It is the home of the Hallé orchestra and hosts over 250 performances a year, from major classical concerts to rock and jazz acts. Its spectacular glass-fronted foyer serves as a vibrant social meeting place, providing a stunning contemporary backdrop for the city's world-class musical life.