Clarence Conservatorium wins major grant for new piano, more seats
The popular Clarence Valley Conservatorium in Villiers Street, Grafton is about to become bigger and better courtesy of a NSW Government grant of over $120,000, Clarence MP Chris Gulaptis has announced.
Mr Gulaptis was joined by Minister for the Arts Ben Franklin to make the announcement on Sunday at St Cecilia’s Day Concert, a special performance by the dedicated teachers at the Conservatorium to honour Saint Cecilia, the Patroness Saint of Musicians.
“The music conservatorium has been a leader in performing arts in the Clarence Valley for many years and prides itself on providing an extensive range of music, instrumental, vocal, and school programs by professional tutors,” Mr Gulaptis said.
“It also provides a range of cultural opportunities throughout the year by bringing high quality concerts and performances to the area, allowing residents of all ages to enrich and expand their cultural experiences.
“We are very excited to be providing funding for tiered retractable seating to improve sight lines, a new grand piano and an upgrade of the audio mixing desk.”
The project was among the latest to receive funding as part of the Nationals in NSW Government’s $72 million Creative Capital initiative.
Minister Franklin said this funding will pay dividends for the local community of by delivering a much-needed facility upgrade.
“This $121,196 investment in cultural infrastructure in the Clarence Valley is in recognition of the valuable role arts and culture plays in the community and something they can be really proud of,” Mr Franklin said.
Conservatorium Director Adam Wills said the Creative Capital grant would allow the organisation to continue work on upgrading the Moran Auditorium.
“A larger grand piano that is more suited to the space will attract international pianists to the region, while the installation of tiered, retractable seating will offer audience members a better view of the performers, while maintaining the flexibility of the space,” Mr Wills said.
To find out what is happening at the Conservatorium or to get involved, please visit their website cvcon.com.au
Further details on the Creative Capital program are available on the Create NSW website at create.nsw.gov.au