Fireplaces, Heating Stoves, Flues and Chimneys - Brick fireplace makeover

I have a brick fireplace in the living room and I am torn about what to do about. I don't like brick and would prefer to see it done in granite or slate or something a little more modern. The brick is in good shape so I should be able to cover the front face with the new tiles or stone. However, I'd like to tear the hearth out completely. Its about 4 inches high and because the room is small I'd rather see it flush with the floor. I think it wouldn't seem to take up so much space. What tools should I use to remove the brick? If I remove the hearth, should I also go ahead and remove the face as well? Will it be very difficult to remove so maybe I should just leave it alone?

What is the hearth made of? - Brick or concrete?

If you can see/tell. what is under the hearth? - Concrete or wood?

I tore out my 16" high by 6' long hearth. It was sitting on the concrete slab and it was not difficult, but was a little messy. I did not remove the brick around the fireplace opeining and firebox, so I could cover it with 12x12 tile.

Dick