SLPC Groundbreaking Ceremony

Celebrating the start of construction on its Student Life and Performance Center (SLPC), New England Conservatory will host a joyful groundbreaking ceremony on May 5, 2015 at 3:30 PM. Open to the public, the event takes place on the construction site located at 241 St. Botolph Street, near the corner of Gainsborough St. The ceremony will include remarks by Conservatory and government leaders interspersed with music performed by NEC students.

The first new construction at NEC since 1959, the $85 million SLPC is scheduled to open in 2017, to coincide with the Conservatory’s 150th anniversary. It will house a new residence hall with 250 beds, a two-level library for audio and print resources, a new dining commons, a black box opera studio, large orchestra rehearsal space with acoustics mimicking Jordan Hall, and a small ensemble room with recording studio suited to jazz and contemporary improvisation.

Designed by Ann Beha Architects and Gensler Boston, the project will be built by Tishman Construction. Beha’s firm, which is headquartered in Boston, also steered the restoration of NEC’s historic Jordan Hall in 1994–1995, receiving numerous awards for historic preservation and illumination. Tishman previously executed the $21 million exterior renovations of the Conservatory’s four buildings in 2009–2010, winning numerous awards for historic preservation and green initiatives.

For students, the new building will have a powerful impact on their experience at NEC. “Having everything in one place will be a wonderful way to bring people together,” said student violinist Robyn Bollinger ’13, ’15 M.M. “Being able to practice, rehearse, and relax will be so much easier. One can go back and forth quickly. You can take some down time and then jump back in. It will offer a great benefit for the health and happiness of the student body.”

Funded through private philanthropy and financing, the Conservatory has raised more than $60 million to date. Trustee Board Chair, Kennett F. Burnes credits the “extraordinary” support of Board members, alumni, and others who are helping the Conservatory meet its fundraising goal.

“The Student Life and Performance Center will transform the life of NEC students, faculty, staff, and the community,” Burnes said. “It will reflect and augment the Conservatory’s eminence in Boston and in the world of music education and performance.”