PYP’s Forever Home: Returning to Our Roots in Irvington

Posted on November 13, 2025

More than 100 years ago, Portland Youth Philharmonic began its story in Portland’s Irvington neighborhood, where founder Mary V. Dodge led one of the city’s first youth orchestras. Today, after generations of rehearsing in borrowed spaces across the metro area, PYP is returning to those same roots with the purchase of its first permanent home: the historic Central Lutheran Church on NE 21st Avenue.

The building was designed in 1950 by Pietro Belluschi, one of Oregon’s most influential architects. His use of natural light, warm wood, and textured brick created a space that feels peaceful and timeless. It is a fitting environment for an organization built on careful listening, creativity, and community.

This purchase is a major moment in PYP’s history, but it is also just the beginning. The building needs significant work before it can open its doors to students and families. Renovation planning is underway, and the next year will be focused on research, design, and preparing the space for music education.

A New Chapter Built on Over a Century of Music

For decades, PYP has dreamed of having a place that could truly be its home. This dream is now taking its first steps toward reality. Musical Director David Hattner reflects on what this future means.

“Our new home is transformative,” he says. “For more than a century, the Portland Youth Philharmonic has brought young musicians together all over the city. Now, for the first time, we will have a true home, a place where our music, our instruments, and our community all come together. It means more music, more flexibility, and a deeper connection between our musicians, families, and the community that supports us.”

PYP currently serves more than 300 young musicians each year through large ensembles, chamber music, coaching, and educational outreach. Owning a building will allow the organization to deepen that work and expand what is possible for future generations.

Honoring the Building’s Past and Preparing for Its Future

The former church is listed on the Oregon Registry of Historic Places and is widely recognized as an important example of early Northwest Modern design. Preserving its character is a top priority.
“We are honored to become stewards of this incredible piece of Oregon’s architectural history,” says Executive Director Noreen Murdock. “This is a wonderful opportunity to develop an excellent space for music education and performance while preserving a beautiful and important existing structure.”

Early plans include upgrading acoustics, creating flexible rehearsal spaces, improving accessibility, and building storage areas for instruments and equipment. These goals will take time. PYP is working with architects and consultants to learn what the building needs before construction can begin.

Board President Leslie Wu notes the dedication behind reaching this milestone. “PYP becoming a homeowner has been no small feat,” she says. “The PYP Board and staff have spent countless hours taking this building from dream to reality for the organization. This new era marks an incredible opportunity for the PYP community and for the Portland metro area at large. We are very excited to see PYP grow into its new role as a convenor of the arts community in a building that is a work of art in itself.”

A Home for Music and Community

Once renovations are complete, the building will be a place where students can rehearse, learn, create, and connect. PYP plans to offer workshops, open rehearsals, sectional coaching, youth development programs, and space for partner organizations to gather. Alumni, neighbors, and schools will be welcomed in as well.

The path ahead is exciting and full of possibilities. The purchase was finalized in late October, and administrative offices will begin transitioning into the building later this fall. Renovation work and program planning will continue throughout 2025 and 2026.

To learn more about the project, or learn how to support this work, contact .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).