Minnesota Masterpiece Hall to boost Winona's economy

WINONA, Minn (WKBT) -- Jerry Pappenfus doesn't go to concerts a lot but when Minnesota Masterpiece Hall opens, he says he will attend them more.

"Absolutely. This is going to be top notch entertainment. To have this at our doorstep in Winona is just an incredible opportunity," said Pappenfus.

Construction is underway for the 740-seat music hall located in the heart of Winona. City economic director Lucy McMartin says the venue's performance schedule will make Winona busier on both weekends and weekdays.

"Performances and educational pieces will be on Sundays and Mondays which isn't a night that has high hotel stays in Winona," McMartin said.

"I think that will help economically the businesses on times other than the weekend."

It's another project from owners Bob Kierlin and Mary Burrichter, who are trying to help the city grow and boost its economy. Restaurant owners like Eric Mullen are confident they'll see more customers.

"We're in very close proximity to it so I'm thinking will get a lot of people coming before and after the shows," Mullen said. "Winona has always been a town for the music and arts and I think this is furthering that even more."

But concertgoers won't be seeing music's biggest names like Taylor Swift or Ed Sheeran.

"You know Winona is home to a lot of festivals one being the Beethoven festival and the musicians will be much like you would see at the Beethoven festival," Winona Area Chamber of Commerce President Christie Ransom said.

"These are orchestras or violinists, or they might be guitarists or things of that nature but they're world renowned."

For Pappenfus, he doesn't care who comes to town.

"I'll enjoy whoever they bring."

Minnesota Masterpiece Hall is expected to open in 2025. The project is costing More than $30 million.

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