With around 500 music students and only 46 rehearsal rooms, finding a free practice space at the Conservatoire can be a challenge, especially during exam periods. A few months ago, local resident Evert Van den Broeck came up with a brilliant solution to this problem.
On his platform roomforimprovement.be, he connects our students with Antwerp residents who are willing to open up a space for rehearsals free of charge. He drew his inspiration from close to home. ‘My wife is a musician and also studied at the conservatoire. She was able to practise at home, but many students can’t find a suitable place. The class rooms at the conservatoire fill up quickly, and rehearsing in student accommodation isn’t always ideal.’
How to
It’s simple: anyone offering a space can choose which instruments are welcome and at what times. Students then look for a place that suits them and get in touch via the platform to make arrangements. Everything is free and anyone can apply.
Museum Vleeshuis
And there’s more good news as of this week: the Main Hall at Museum Vleeshuis is now also available for rehearsals. The space is large (400 m²) and high-ceilinged (12 m) – ideal for larger ensembles, and a welcome challenge for solo musicians. A piano is provided; please bring your own instruments. Bookings can be made in advance through the platform.
Do you have room for a musician at home? Let us know via roomforimprovement.be.