SeattleChange
Originally named Pierce auditorium, the name was changed a year later to the Frederic H. Pease Auditorium. Frederic H. Pease was the professor of music from 1858–1909 and Head of Conservatory at Michigan State Normal School. He was described as being, "very eager to help students develop their full potential for music". When Pease opened for the fall semester of 1914, it was considered to be one of the most modern and prestigious auditoriums of its time. The grand neoclassical façade and classical details of the interior made the acoustics top of the line, and attracted many performers from across the country. Later in 1957, there was a large organ installed on the back of the stage. Then in 1959 new seats and a new stage floor was added. In 1993-1994 president William E. Shelton spent 2.2 million dollars on renovations to electrical, plumbing and structural upgrades, as well as adding new seats and putting in a lighting system for performing arts performances.