FTL designed the original tensile bandshell over twenty years ago and the producers of the events decided to upgrade the facility with a larger one as the PBS, 'A Capitol Fourth' and 'National Memorial Day Concert' has become major televsion events. The design of the new structure uses a saddle shape to project and balance sound from the different musical ensembles including the entire National Symphony Orchestra. The roof membrane also acts as a light canvas for the lighting and video projection which is an intricate part of the television experience.