The Mount Royal University Conservatory’s long awaited Bella Concert Hall and new facilities opened its doors to the public for the first time last Saturday in a lively open house that featured performances by members of their various choir programs, the Calgary Youth Orchestra, chamber groups from the Advanced Performance Program, and much more. Among the many talented performers who were some of the first to use the new conservatory was Yan Li, a 15 year-old high school student who has been playing the violin since the age of 5. Since her arrival to Calgary, she has made a name for herself in the MRU conservatory and has participated in many of their programs. I was fortunate enough to interview her about her experiences with the conservatory as well as what the new venues will mean for musicians like herself. The new conservatory is set to open this summer, and is definitely a must-see.
How long have you been involved in the MRU Conservatory and what programs have you participated in?
I am currently enrolled in the Advanced Performance Program and also have been a part of the Academy for Gifted Youth program since I was eight. I have also participated in the international exchange program Morningside Music Bridge for the past four years and was a member of the Calgary Youth Orchestra.
How has the conservatory influenced you as a musician and a person over the years?
The conservatory is like a second home to me. The people I have worked with are amazing. Be it the conservatory’s very own musicians, visiting guest artists, or international students from Morningside Music Bridge, we simply connected through music. I was given the opportunity to work with other people who loved music, and those from different cultures too. We motivate each other through each performance and lecture. It’s truly inspiring for everyone and that’s what makes the conservatory a special place.
Can you describe your role in the groundbreaking of the new conservatory?
It felt like yesterday since I was invited to play at the groundbreaking. It was such a memorable date that indicated a start for a new project that benefits young aspiring artists like myself. The people in attendance included mayor Naheed Nenshi and the president of MRU, as well as the donors, who were the ones to start digging. There was actually a violin stored underneath the ground which the president pretended to play (although it was another person on the fiddle!). Following that, I began playing on the stage they had set up. It’s hard to believe the building is almost finished now and I will be one of the first in history to perform and learn in such a beautiful place!
How will the new conservatory benefit young musicians in Calgary?
Personally, it will be an incredible experience to play in such a nice concert hall with amazing acoustics. Such a nice venue will inspire us to play at Carnegie hall someday. As well, Bella will serve as a place for recitals and recordings.I will still think about the old building since it held many unforgettable memories in the narrow hallways and windowless practice rooms, nevertheless, I can’t wait to continue my passion for music in a new place and start a new adventure! I feel that my fellow musicians are just excited as I am!
What are you most looking forward to when it comes to the new conservatory?
I’m looking forward to everything including not having to fight over practice rooms and just having a more spacious and modern environment to learn in. The colour of the walls are nice and warm, which is comforting to practice in and the additional sound-proofing the in the new conservatory will make our practicing a lot less distracted. I’m most excited about the Bella Concert Hall, where the majority of the concerts will be held! Also, since the current conservatory has many smaller concert halls but not a larger one, the Bella will be a well-needed addition. I remember the entire CYO squished onto a stage that barely contained us! I am looking forward to the competitions, performances, and events that will be held there. The new conservatory is sure to become the epicenter for music here in Calgary.
Much thanks to Yan for sharing her thoughts. To see photos and a tour guide to the open house, check out Jessica’s post