As London expands, a proposal for a building to inspire a new generation of music-lovers:
- A world-class concert hall, built for the digital age
- An education facility offering immersive experiences for all
- A digital offer available to the whole of the UK and internationally
- Engagement for London’s communities and young people
- A renewed commitment to London as a world musical centre
Proposals to build a new state of the art Centre for Music in the heart of London took a step forward today with the announcement that the Government will provide £5.5 million in funding for a full business case for the project while the City of London Corporation has agreed its willingness in principle to make land available for the site.
The opportunity to begin the next phase comes as a feasibility study exploring options for a new world class music facility in London is published. The study sets out an economic, business, cultural and educational case for a potential new Centre for Music in London, and highlights a significant moment of opportunity in delivering an outstanding new facility in the capital.
The Government is making £5.5 million available via Arts Council England to fund the development of a detailed business plan and analysis of costs and benefits; work on the initial design for the building; explore the options for funding the project and beginning fundraising; and undertake extensive consultation with the arts and education sectors.
Meanwhile, the City of London Corporation is backing this vision by agreeing in principle to make the land available for the Centre, significantly reducing the external funding requirement for the project. This support is part of the City’s ambitious plans to transform the area surrounding the Barbican into a world-leading cultural hub for the arts, heritage and learning.
The six-month initial feasibility study, Towards a World-Class Centre for Music, was commissioned by the Chancellor of the Exchequer and the Mayor of London in February this year. The report has been produced by the Barbican Centre, the London Symphony Orchestra (LSO) and the Guildhall School of Music & Drama alongside expert specialist teams.