Studio Bell of Calgary AB
Studio Bell is an interactive cultural center located in Calgary, Alberta. The building featured an upscale performance hall, exhibition galleries, recording studios, classrooms, and a media center and was designed to showcase Canada’s music history, diversity, and future potential. It also houses Canada’s National Music Centre and a collection of musical instruments.
The building has nine interlocking towers that rise from the ground, offering sweeping views of Stampede Park. A 300-seat performance hall and an atrium form the heart of the building. It’s made of steel and concrete and has 200,000 tiles. There are 22 exhibition galleries with interactive displays that explore the sights and sounds of Canadian music. Some exhibits include an Elton John piano, a recording studio, and a radio station.
Visitors can test out instruments and learn about the history of music. The Kimball Theatre Organ, dating back to 1924, is a highlight for many visitors. On Saturdays, organ demonstrations are conducted at noon and 3 p.m.
The fourth floor features the Soundbox, which allows visitors to play with different musical instruments. This is a fun activity for kids. You can also pretend to be a rock star by constructing your music.
Studio Bell is a live music venue that hosts live performances, exhibitions, and education programs. It is open to the public daily. If you want to explore the history of Canadian music, you can book a guided tour. Tours last about an hour. For a fee, you can also enjoy a visit to the Kimball Theatre Organ.
The building is a mosaic of Canada’s music history. Designed by Allied Works Architecture, the building incorporates the curves of musical instruments. Many of the exhibitions at Studio Bell are interactive, allowing visitors to touch and test instruments and learn about Canada’s rich musical heritage.
Studio Bell offers paid guided tours on weekdays. Visitors can choose between a one-hour tour or a two-hour tour. The admission price is CA$20 (around $15) for adults and CA$12 (around $9) for children. During the holidays, the centre is closed on Christmas, Easter, and New Year’s Day. However, the facility is open Wednesday through Sunday, with some exceptions.
The Canadian Music Centre contains several permanent and temporary exhibitions. They tell the stories of music and industry pioneers. In addition to the permanent exhibitions, the centre will host regular weekend performances. Several new temporary exhibits will honor iconic Canadians.
Whether you are a musician or a fan, the building provides a fascinating look at the history of music in Canada. It also showcases a unique collection of musical instruments. Visit the centre to experience the life of music and listen to some of Canada’s finest musicians. Afterward, you can visit the gift shop.
Located next to the King Edward Hotel, Studio Bell was conceived to serve as a new cultural center for music in Canada. Andrew Mosker, the former president of the National Music Centre, wanted to create an institution that was more than just a museum. Seeing this fusion of architecture and music inspired him to create a cultural space that celebrated and amplified the history of music in Canada.
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