Under the leadership of Director of the Conservatory Mr. Kyle Struve, a Centennial Hall classroom was transformed into a studio for the Haverrock Ensemble, the school’s rock band. This new space, called Studio 5, dates back to 1984 and used to be a multi-purpose practice room. It housed a grand piano, a drumset, music stands, and chairs.
The idea of a dedicated space for the rock band originated last spring when Mr. Struve was walking the Form II Rite of Passage. During the long walk he was thinking about the room next to Mrs. Hallman’s Drama Studio and wanted to turn that into a rock band studio.
“As luck would have it, I spotted Mrs. Hallman about 30 yards ahead. I jogged up and ran the idea by her, and she was immediately encouraging. I called Mr. Hengst shortly after, and he was supportive as well,” Mr. Struve said.
In order to turn the room into a studio, Mr. Struve and Performing Arts Chair Mr. Darren Hengst used a financial donation, which they allocated to purchasing new equipment. Mr. Hengst helped to design sound-absorbing panels, which were affixed to the walls, providing ample soundproofing.
“I don’t consider music a competitive art, but I like the idea of having a resourceful and scrappy program where the boys can really learn to stand and deliver. You need a home base to cultivate that kind of reputation. We have that now.”
Mr. Kyle Struve
Studio 5 has already benefited the Haverrock Ensembles. The groups can now maximize their time together and operate more efficiently. Everyone can hear one another more easily, given that they are in a space specifically designed for their needs, which helps them refine their music. The groups now have one dedicated space for them to connect and collaborate.
“I don’t consider music a competitive art, but I like the idea of having a resourceful and scrappy program where the boys can really learn to stand and deliver. You need a home base to cultivate that kind of reputation. We have that now,” Mr. Struve said. “Ultimately, I am so grateful to Mr. Hengst, Mr. Woodward, Mrs. Hallman, and our generous donors for making this transformation possible. Our band now has a dedicated home.”
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