University News Last updated 21 July 2015
The first new conservatoire in the UK for a generation will be built for Birmingham City University by Galliford Try plc, the housebuilding and construction group.
The new £46 million Birmingham Conservatoire will be open for teaching and performances by September 2017.
The facility, the first of its kind built in the UK since 1987, will see the existing Birmingham Conservatoire move across the city to the University’s rapidly emerging Eastside campus, giving music students access to a range of facilities including its giant green screen and recording studios.
Designed by Feilden Clegg Bradley studios, the Conservatoire, which is part of Birmingham City University, will house a 496-seat auditorium, two additional performance spaces and a range of teaching facilities.
Globally renowned cellist Julian Lloyd-Webber, who started work earlier this month as the Principal of the Birmingham Conservatoire, will support the migration of staff and students to the new location when the doors open in two years time.
Professor Cliff Allan, Birmingham City University Vice Chancellor, said: “As the first new Conservatoire in the UK in over a generation this development is not only a significant addition to the City of Birmingham but also to music education across the country.
“Our superb new Conservatoire will feature unrivalled practice and performance facilities, as well as a design that will encourage people from the city to come in and enjoy the creativity of our talented students.
“The arrival of the new Conservatoire will give the second city a viable claim to be the first among equals for classical music performance across the UK, as it is already home to a superb Symphony Hall and the esteemed City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra.”
Speaking after the deal was agreed with the university, Greg Fitzgerald, Galliford Try’s Executive Chairman, commented: “We are delighted to be involved in such a high-profile and significant project for both Birmingham and the surrounding area. We look forward to working with Birmingham City University and the design team to produce a world-class musical facility for both the students and the wider community.”