Shortly after the end of the Civil War, when the clamor of Frederick's traffic was produced by the rhythmic tapping of horses' hooves, German immigrants built a structure in which to host their social gatherings. The building was purchased about 30 years later by the Women's College of Frederick, which eventually became Hood College. Since the daughters of The Honorable Andrew R. Brodbeck, after whom the music hall is named, attended Hood and studied music in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the cross-shaped building has been home to the music department, providing office space and teaching studios for faculty, practice rooms for students, and a concert hall for performances by Hood musicians as well as distinguished guest artists. The side porch of Brodbeck also buzzes with activity as tiny tots and others from the Frederick community enter and exit. The Kindermusik program tutors approximately100 squirming, fervent, would-be Beethhovens, ages 18 months to five years.
Individual lessons are available to students of all ages.
The building itself is a study in contradiction. Ancient, chestnut floor boards creek and moan under visitors' footsteps in the hallways and on the stairs. But, thanks to William Sprigg, professor emeritus and former department chair, the practice rooms are modernized and sound treated, boasting double walls, floors, and ceilings. A violin student can practice enthusiastically without disturbing the piano student in the room above. Most of the rooms are sun drenched and airy.