Belarusian State Academy of Music: Major Restoration of the Main Building

The Belarusian State Academy of Music, a landmark of Minsk and an essential cultural institution of Belarus, has been closed for major repairs, reconstruction, and restoration. This process promises to rejuvenate the building’s exterior and interior, restore its historical grandeur, and adapt it to modern standards.

Historical Value of the Building

The main building of the academy was constructed in 1958 and is a second-category historical and cultural heritage site. Its architecture is executed in a grand palatial style. Wide marble staircases, oak railings, granite windowsills, and exquisite stucco work emphasize its status as the country’s primary center of musical education. For more than 66 years, the building has not undergone any significant repairs. Now, the time has come to preserve its historical value and ensure a comfortable environment for students and faculty.

What Will Be Done?

Restoration work began in the fall of 2024 and will last approximately two years. The project’s budget amounts to 33 million rubles, allocated from the state budget. The process is divided into three stages: major repairs, reconstruction, and restoration.

Major Repairs

• Complete replacement of utilities: pipes, engineering systems, ceilings, roofs, and floors will be entirely upgraded.
• Modern equipment: the building will be equipped with an innovative air conditioning system with minimal noise levels (up to 21 dB) to maintain an optimal microclimate necessary for musical instruments.

Restoration

Special attention is being paid to the central part of the building, which will preserve and restore its original appearance. During the restoration:

• The sparkling white facade color used during the initial construction will be revived. Mica will be added to the paint, as was done in 1958.
• The original window frame design will be restored.
• Marble staircases, stucco work, parquet flooring, and ceiling elements will be refurbished.

Reconstruction

Some rooms will be modified to align with their original purpose. For instance, lecture halls will be modernized to improve acoustics, which is vital for musical training.

Innovations and Revival of Old Ideas

The project includes not only restoring the building’s historical appearance but also implementing some of architect Roman Gegart’s earlier unfulfilled concepts. Cozy squares with rose bushes and pedestrian paths will appear to the right and left of the entrance. One of these squares will feature a sculpture dedicated to Belarusian musicians, possibly a work by sculptor Valentin Zankovich. Among the modern additions is a state-of-the-art recording studio, where students and faculty can create high-quality recordings for competitions and performances.

Temporary Relocation of Events

During the renovation, concerts and lectures have been relocated to the small hall and music lounge at 9 Kommunisticheskaya Street. This allows the academy to continue its educational and cultural activities without interruption.

When Will It Be Completed?

The restoration is scheduled for completion in 2026. After that, the building will reemerge in its renewed glory.