The Elder Conservatorium - Centenary Celebrations

The Elder Conservatorium - Centenary Celebrations

Its graduates grace the London, Vienna and Berlin Philharmonic Orchestras, and every major orchestra in Australia. Through one of its famous Professors, John Bishop, it's helped parent the Australian Youth Orchestra and the Adelaide Festival of Arts.

Why the "Elder"? He's the same Elder who donated the rotunda in Elder Park, and gave the zoo its old elephant house. It was at the University of Adelaide on North Terrace, however, that Sir Thomas Elder's fabulous wealth and philanthropy were most felt. A pastoralist, politician and business magnate, he gave to the University over several gifts the equivalent of nearly $20 million in today's money. A statue was erected by the grateful citizens after the death in 1897 of this adventurous, pious bachelor Scot who gave the Elder Conservatorium its start. It stands before the hall.

Lunchtime concerts are held every day in term time. The Centenary Week concerts may attract some first timers, who'll pay the princely sum of $2 to hear the professional musicians and teachers of the next century - and enjoy the magnificence of the hundred year old hall.

Foundation Day will see a public birthday party on the lawns in front of the Elder Hall. It will be held from 2.15pm on Friday 25 September, and you're invited to contribute to a "Pathway of Golden Coins" to take the Elder Conservatorium into the next century. Your name goes on an honour roll so you're part of a slice into history - and you'll get a slice of birthday cake too.

For more information you can contact The Elder Conservatorium, University of Adelaide North Terrace, Adelaide SA 5000, The University of Adelaide Performing Arts faculty has centenary details on its website at www.pa.adelaide.edu.au