Bellefield Hall is home to a variety of University offices and services, but most Pitt students, faculty, and staff know the building for its indoor swimming pool, gym, and fitness center. It also houses facilities for the Department of Music, including the William R. Robinson Digital Recording Studio and a 676-seat auditorium where many recitals and concerts are held.
A Pittsburgh History and Landmarks Foundation Historic Landmark, Bellefield Hall was designed by famed architect Benno Janssen. Renowned ironworker Samuel Yellin (best remembered at Pitt for creating the massive gates in the Cathedral of Learning’s Commons Room) crafted the lanterns for the main entrance.
Originally home to the Oakland branch of the Young Men’s and Women’s Hebrew Association, Bellefield Hall was dedicated in 1926. Among the musicians who made their Pittsburgh debuts in the building’s auditorium were Arthur Rubinstein, Isaac Stern, and Jean-Pierre Rampal.