The Geneva Conservatory
- is a symbol of high art, virtuosity and world recognition. Geneva has always attracted people of culture, including Byron, Jean Baptiste Corot, Victor Hugo, Balzac, George Sand and Franz Liszt.
Here developed the talents of great musicians, composers and conductors. Jacques Dalkroz, Hugo de Senzher, Ernest Bloch, Henri Marto, Ernest Anserme and many others have provided Geneva with rich city and varied musical life reputation.
Located at the prestigious New Square, conservatory - Byzantine style buildings, decorated with muses and ancient gods - was built in 1856-1858. Two additional wings were built in 1920. Now the Conservatory has a large concert hall, a small hall and choral room, as well as the audience for music lessons.
Grand Theatre
In May 1951, during rehearsals of valkiry scenes from Richard Wagner's opera, where the main character is surrounded by flames, the fire broke out on stage. It spread on all building. During several hours this copy of Paris "Opera Garnier" was destroyed, and only ashes remained.
The Geneva Opera "Grand Theatre" opened in 1879. It was the center of Geneva musical life, the greatest composers represented their works here. The restoration of the building lasted for ten years, but the renovated theater is better equipped and decorated. Majestic finish ceiling and curtain scene have noticeably changed. Since then, opera theatre during the season offers even more rich and diverse repertoire.