18 Aug 2016

Share this story

Performers are stepping on to the stage in Christchurch’s newest music and arts venue.

The Piano, with a distinctive copper-roofed auditorium, is on the corner of New Regent and Armagh Streets and hosts some of its first concerts this week.

The Music and Arts Centre was designed by Willkie and Bruce Architects to reflect the curves of a grand piano.

Students from Rangi Ruru Girls’ School were rehearsing for two cultural performances at The Piano today. Kapa haka performers, dancers, singers and musicians, enjoyed the acoustics and atmosphere of the $16.8 million venue.

Rangi Ruru student head of music Karen Hu said it was exciting to perform in the auditorium for the first time. “The acoustics are so nice to play in, it’s so resonant. It makes the whole playing experience a lot more enjoyable. We’re all really enjoying just being here.”

The venue, which is suitable for drama, dance and music productions, has high quality lighting and sound and is equipped for radio and TV recording and broadcasting. Reflective panelling on the walls and ceiling made from Southland Maple Beech timber contributes to the world-class acoustics designed by specialists Marshall Day.

The auditorium, which is available for hire throughout the year, has a raised stage and a raked seating for 330 people. 

Director Bronwyn Bijl, said The Piano was already proving popular with the Word Christchurch Writers and Readers Festival and Canterbury Philharmonia holding events there in the next few weeks, and leading Kiwi theatre company Indian Ink booked for later in the year. In its first four days of operation about 1000 people had used it, either as audience members or performers. 

A concert featuring local jazz musician Doug Caldwell was the first to be held at The Piano, and on Saturday the city’s Atlas Voices ensemble will perform Brahm’s Requiem.

It is a post-earthquake replacement for The Music Centre which was on Barbadoes Street. Along with the concert hall, it has a foyer suitable for receptions, celebrations and lectures and a wing with smaller spaces for rehearsals, teaching workshops and meetings. The building will also be home to the Christchurch Arts Festival Trust.

The community facility was funded with money from insurance payments with assistance from Christchurch City Council, the Government and other agencies.

The Piano’s official opening will be held on Saturday September 17 with a gold coin donation public open day.