Diamond Schmitt Architects has been shortlisted to develop a concept design for a new concert hall in London, United Kingdom, in partnership with UK architecture firm AL_A. The competition to design the Centre for Music is being led by the Barbican Centre, London Symphony Orchestra and Guildhall School of Music & Drama, with support from the City of London Corporation.

The Centre for Music is planned to house a world-class concert hall, education, training and digital spaces, and facilities to help bring music-making to the widest possible audience. It will also be a permanent home to the London Symphony Orchestra and host performances from the Barbican’s family of Associate orchestras, as well as performances from touring artists and orchestras from across the UK and the world.

The developers were looking for applications from internationally-recognized experts to develop plans for the building. The shortlist also includes Norman Foster, Frank Geary and Renzo Piano.

The preferred site for the new Centre for Music is in the heart of the Square Mile, currently the site of the Museum of London, which is developing a new and larger site at West Smithfield.

“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to help the Barbican, London Symphony Orchestra, Guildhall School and the City of London Corporation realize their goal for a concert hall to be among the best in the world,” said Donald Schmitt, principal, Diamond Schmitt Architects, in a press release.

“I am thrilled that AL_A and Diamond Schmitt Architects have been shortlisted for this ambitious project,” added Amanda Levete, Principal of AL_A. “It is an extraordinary opportunity to redefine the role that music and culture can play in today’s society, right in the heart of the city.”