The grand plans have finally been unveiled for the new Riverina Conservatorium of Music following months of delays and setbacks.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The site will be located at the old RMS building on Simmons Street, which will be undergoing a major overhaul with a refurbished exterior and a brand new interior.
Chairman Andrew Wallace said the new conservatorium would be an "absolute game-changer", featuring state-of-the-art technology and custom-tailored architecture for perfect acoustics.
The development plans include three rehearsal studios, one custom designed for brass bands, another tailored for acoustic instruments, and a third larger theatre with a raised ceiling for ensemble performances.
All three rehearsal studios come fully equipped with cutting-edge recording equipment, which will be used to livestream their events and record their performances.
READ MORE:
The two-storey building will feature around 20 studios and several recording booths, where music teachers will stream their lessons to students from around the Riverina.
Dr Wallace said it was a relief to see the plans finally come together, especially after all the delays caused by COVID-19 and bureaucracy.
"It takes a long time of planning, working with government, working through the red tape, the pink tape, whatever colour the tape happens to be that day," Dr Wallace said.
"Now we're at the point where we can finally see it happening - it's not just talk it's action.
"It's going to be an absolute game-changer for the city."
The plans will be submitted to Wagga City Council next week for the final tick of approval, before being put to tender in the coming two to three weeks.
Several companies have already put up their hands for stage one of the project, which is expected to be finished and open for musicians towards the end of next year.
The board is still working on the business case for the second stage of the plans, which so far includes designs for a "world class" 300-person performance venue, an early childhood music centre, and a potential restaurant, cafe, and broadcast studio.
Once complete, the new conservatorium will be the bookend to Wagga City Council's "2020-2030 cultural precinct", linking it to the museum and several art spaces through the lagoon walkway.
"We don't resent the forty years we spent in the old place, but this is purpose built just for us," Dr Wallace said.
"It's wonderful for Wagga, this facility, and it will be all ours for many, many, many years to come."