Keeping the music playing

ONE of the oldest buildings in Lismore is getting a renovation.

Capital works at the Northern Rivers Conservatorium (NRC) have been approved by Lismore City Council. It is the biggest upgrade in the organisation’s history.

The works are funded by the NSW Government, with $4.8million through Create NSW’s Community Local Infrastructure Recovery Package and Creative Capital funding programs.

Christopher Leach, the chair of the conservatorium said the works will improve the facility for students.

“NRC is the proud custodian of one of the oldest community buildings in the centre of Lismore and the single largest provider of quality music education in the Northern Rivers.

“These works will ensure students have an environment that is both attractive and optimal for their journey in music”.

The conservatorium returned to teaching and administration spaces within five months of the February 2022 flood event, but further work was needed.

The program of works will enhance the future resilience of both the infrastructure and the organisation, supporting the conservatorium’s ongoing contribution to the Northern Rivers region.

The major items in the program of works include installing a goods lift, a new roof and solar panels, recovery and upgrade to the car park and grounds, reclamation of ground floor spaces, upgrade and refurbishment of the concert room, and upgrade to the fire system, which is almost complete.

The conservatorium provides classes to individuals and groups, a Music in Schools Program, and an Early Childhood Music program.

Over the past year, the board and management of the conservatorium have been working with a design team of local experts coordinated by project Manager Richard Mason.

The development application for the project has been approved by Lismore City Council and Bennett Constructions will begin work soon.

The conservatorium will remain operational during the renovation.

Opened in 1902, the buildings on the corner of Keen and Magellan streets have been home to organisations including Lismore High School, Lismore Teachers College, Northern Rivers College of Advanced Education, and Southern Cross University.