Music and performing arts centre excites students

There were many "jaws on the floor" as University of Otago students moved into the new music and performing arts centre in Dunedin.

The centre, which includes a two-storey recording studio and theatre rehearsal spaces, also involved refurbishing the connecting College of Education’s music suite, teaching wing, tower block and part of the education resource centre.

Music technician Stephen Stedman said students’ expectations had been exceeded.

The studio had been the star of the show and a new mixing desk, which arrived on Sunday, would allow for multi-channel audio recording.

Mr Stedman said each individual drum could be recorded separately, allowing for better opportunities in post-production.

University of Otago advanced drum student Jade Zaia (left) and his teacher Carl Woodward enjoy the ‘‘clean’’ acoustics of the new two-storey recording studio in the Music and Performing Arts Centre. PHOTOS: GREGOR RICHARDSON
University of Otago advanced drum student Jade Zaia (left) and his teacher Carl Woodward enjoy the ‘‘clean’’ acoustics of the new two-storey recording studio in the Music and Performing Arts Centre. PHOTOS: GREGOR RICHARDSON

While the studio would be used predominantly for students’ education, it would also serve as a community resource.

Advanced drum student Jade Zaia was impressed with the acoustics in the studio.

He said in previous facilities, the sound had been "drowned out" when he played.

His teacher Carl Woodward agreed and said the studio was fantastic space to work in and a comfortable space for ensembles.

Students were spoilt for choice with collaborate spaces, which singing teacher Hannah Thompson-Holloway said had sparked students’ inspiration.

University of Otago’s Bachelor of Performing Arts students take aclass lead by dance teacher Sofia Kalogeropoulou in the new performing arts centre yesterday. Photo: Gregor Richardson
University of Otago’s Bachelor of Performing Arts students take aclass lead by dance teacher Sofia Kalogeropoulou in the new performing arts centre yesterday. Photo: Gregor Richardson

"There is new energy ... it is really exciting."

While music equipment was still being moved in, most of the rooms were able to be used and Music and Performing Arts head Anthony Ritchie said he expected it to be completed by the end of April.

"It has been a plan for so long so to see it become a reality, it is just wonderful," he said.

molly.houseman@odt.co.nz

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