About the Venue
Channing Hall is a distinctive Grade II-listed historic events space in Sheffield city centre, located on Surrey Street and directly connected to Upper Chapel. Built in 1881–82 and designed by renowned Sheffield architects Flockton and Gibbs, the hall was created for “religious, educational and social purposes” and remains a much-loved small auditorium and hire venue today. Named after influential American Unitarian minister William Ellery Channing, the hall reflects the progressive civic and cultural values long associated with Upper Chapel.
Set on the second floor with its own entrance from Surrey Street, Channing Hall measures 17m x 10m and can accommodate up to 110 people. The Italianate interior features glazed tile walls, an open timber roof and elegant period detailing, creating an atmospheric setting for concerts, talks, conferences, screenings and private events. Modern facilities include a PA sound system, wireless microphone, Wi-Fi, flexible seating and table layouts, and lift access from ground level. Overlooking Sheffield Town Hall and positioned on a key pedestrian route between the city centre, Cultural Quarter and railway station, Channing Hall is a unique and characterful venue at the heart of the city.
Key details
Address: 45 Surrey Street, Sheffield City Centre, S1 2LG
Built: 1881–1882
Capacity: Up to 110
Type: Historic hall / small auditorium / events space
Listing: Grade II
Architects: Flockton and Gibbs
Access: Lift available; step-free access to hall level
Connected venue: Upper Chapel (via internal corridor)
Elegant, central and rich in history, Channing Hall is ideal for intimate performances, talks and gatherings—and a standout heritage venue on Sheffield’s events calendar.
Upcoming Events
What do magic squares, fractals, and probability theory have to do with music? Why does a Bach fugue feel so satisfying — and how can numbers explain its emotional power?
In Fractals & Fugues: Mathematics in Music, acclaimed mathematician Sarah Hart explores the deep and surprising connections between numbers and notes in this engaging and accessible talk.
What the talk explores
Professor Hart delves into the mathematical ideas that underpin musical structure and creativity, including:
How pattern and symmetry shape musical composition
The mathematical architecture of a Bach fugue
The role of fractals and probability in music-making
Why Pythagoras’s discoveries still matter for how music affects us emotionally
The talk is designed to be entertaining and approachable, with no specialist knowledge of maths or music required.
About the speaker
Sarah Hart is Professor Emerita of Mathematics at Birkbeck University of London and Gresham Professor of Geometry. She is also the author of the popular book Once Upon a Prime, known for making complex mathematical ideas accessible and enjoyable for general audiences.
Her talks are celebrated for their warmth, clarity, and sense of wonder — perfect for anyone curious about how maths and music intersect.
Part of Music in the Round Sheffield
This event forms part of Music in the Round Sheffield’s Percussion, Pattern & Primes weekend.
Booking offers
Save 20% when booking 10 or more Music in the Round Sheffield events in one transaction
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🎟 Tickets & full details:
https://www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk/events/fractals-fugues-mathematics-in-music