Music ranging from classical, rock and pop, jazz and modern rang out in the centre of the city as Exeter College officially opened its new Centre for Music and Performance in Queen Street last night.

The building at 26 Queen Street, was built originally in 1840 as the Exeter Dispensary, but has now been refurbished to provide up to the minute bespoke musical performance spaces and recording and production suites for the ever expanding Music and Performance teams. Matt and Caroline, the Heart Radio Breakfast presenters, were guests of honour at the inspiring event seeing for themselves how modern, classical and jazz musical genres and techniques are proving popular with the young people of Devon.

“Music forms a vital part of our life” said Caroline, Heart presenter “it bookmarks huge events in our memory, it allows us freedom of expression – a luxury that not every culture in the world has.” Fellow guest of honour, Matt, continued “Heart is keen to be involved with Exeter College through our sponsorship of the media student awards and we’ve met some of the future stars of the industry here tonight.”

Whilst it has been open for teaching since the beginning of the year, the event last night officially marked the Centre for Music and Performance as another addition to the College’s investment in student facilities and showcased the exceptional talent of the Music Academy students to guests from all over the city and County of Devon.

“This building has already proved to be a great success in the few months we have been here,” said Laura Wright head of music “It’s proved vital to our music students with regular performances, A level recitals, rehearsals and as the host venue for our Music Academy visitors and events.”

And it’s not just musical performances that have benefited from the new facilities since the refurbishment included investment in dedicated MAC suites and music production and recording studios reflecting the important revolution in digital and online media.

In welcoming guests to the Centre, Principal Richard Atkins said “Music has been part of the College for so long and we’re lucky we have such a rich and diverse offering. It’s such an enlightening and important part of our curriculum and with our talented staff we are welcoming more students from across the county who can now take full advantage of these dedicated facilities. Whether it’s to support music technology, popular, jazz, classical, ensembles or instrumental music I am really pleased we’ve been able to invest in this specialist facility.”

City music teachers, county music specialists, music suppliers and community partners were able to see and hear for themselves how the Centre provides the industry-standard experiences for a range of full time and part time students as they prepare for their careers in the competitive but expanding industry. After a spectacular performance by the college’s Big Band, visitors toured the new Centre dropping into workshops and performances by individual and groups of music students.

Lyn Bourne, Deputy Headteacher, St Peter’s Church of England School, was one of many visitors who were impressed with the facilities “This has been an excellent evening, there are wonderful facilities here which are perfect for music performances. I’m really proud to see our past students performing so well”

Ken Parr of Devon Music Services was also impressed with the new centre saying “There have been some dazzling performances from the students. There is such a good connection between the students and staff and we’re keen to continue the strong relationship with Devon Music Services”

Music students continue to take part in performances at the new Centre and expanding their repertoire to other music venues across the city including the Final Music Performance being staged at the Phoenix on Thursday 16th June.