Construction has begun on a new $7.89 million Piedmont College Conservatory of Music in Demorest. Workers are currently preparing a site adjacent to the Piedmont Chapel on Central Avenue. The project also includes the renovation of existing space on the lower level of the chapel.
The Conservatory will house two classrooms, a concert hall, nine teaching studios, and office space. School officials anticipate it will help elevate the college’s music program to become one of the finest in the Southeast.
Music, money and momentum
Since 1987, Piedmont College has offered degree programs in music performance, church music, music education, musical theatre and arts administration.
“For more than three decades, our music program has produced graduates who have achieved world-class success and developed performing ensembles that have played throughout the nation,” says Piedmont College President James F. Mellichamp. “Now, we will have a facility that reflects our outstanding work.”
Mellichamp has served on Piedmont’s music faculty since 1982. He’s a highly regarded organist who has performed throughout the United States, Canada, Europe, and Asia.
Mellichamp says the college is grateful to Piedmont alumni, friends, corporations and foundations who have made gifts totaling over $7.5 million to date. College officials and alumni are raising funds to push the total across the finish line.
“In recent years, Piedmont has enrolled record classes and completed construction projects to enhance academic programs, student life and residential living,” says Chairman of the Piedmont College Board of Trustees Thomas A. “Gus” Arrendale III. “The Music Conservatory will provide the finest instructional space for our students and signifies Piedmont’s growth and momentum.”
A single gift from a friend of the college is providing for the purchase of 22 new Steinway pianos. As a result, Piedmont will become one of an elite group of all-Steinway schools. School officials say this, coupled with the new Conservatory building, will enable Piedmont’s music program to achieve national accreditation, an achievement not possible with existing facilities.
More than 200 Piedmont students participate in music academic programs and choirs. Each year, the Piedmont College Music Department hosts approximately 40 public concerts and recitals that are free to the community.
Construction on the Piedmont College Conservatory of Music is expected to be completed next fall.
