The historic Capricorn Sound Studios facility in Macon, Georgia where The Allman Brothers Band and others recorded will reopen later this year. The 50th anniversary reopening is spearheaded by nearby Mercer University and grants from the Peyton Anderson Foundation and the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation.
The 20,000-square-foot complex will be called Mercer Music At Capricorn and will feature “the fully restored historic recording studio, plus an additional, larger studio suitable for orchestral recording and film scoring, as well as live performances” and “an interpretive space that tells the story of Capricorn and Macon’s music history through artifacts and interactive exhibits.” Mercer Music at Capricorn will also feature a “music incubator” comprising 13 rehearsal rooms open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Mercer plans to host a reopening concert celebration on December 3.
“We are deeply grateful to the Peyton Anderson Foundation and Knight Foundation for these major grants that will advance our efforts to re-open Capricorn by year-end,” said Mercer University President William D. Underwood. “Mercer Music at Capricorn will contribute to Downtown Macon’s continued revitalization while providing a space that will cultivate the next generation of music talent and enhance the local music scene; draw tourists from around the world; and allow bands and musicians to record in an iconic studio that birthed Southern Rock. It will further solidify Macon’s international reputation as a place that has made, and continues to make, important contributions to music and culture.”
The original Capricorn Sound Studios facility was opened in 1969 by Capricorn Records co-founders Phil Walden and his brother Alan Walden, along with Otis Redding. In addition to early albums by The Allman Brothers Band, other artists that recorded at Capricorn include The Marshall Tucker Band, The Charlie Daniels Band, Elvin Bishop and others.
[Hat Tip – AJC]
