One House, Two Hearts – The History of the Sibelius Academy R Building

This online exhibition presents the history of the R Building. It was realised by Adjunct Professor Riku Hämäläinen as part of the University of the Arts Helsinki’s History Forum’s Oral History Project.

After a renovation, the R Building on Pohjoinen Rautatienkatu street was restored as a teaching and performance space in the autumn of 2019. Originally, the building was constructed to be the main building of the Helsinki Conservatory (Sibelius Academy since 1939).

Towards a Conservatory Building

In 1928, the Helsinki Conservatory Foundation was established to promote the construction of Helsinki Conservatory of Music building.
A Foundation to Build Its Own House

The plot was already known, but the conservatory building itself was only being planned.
A Joint Venture for the Entire Community

The state assisted in the construction of the building, but finance for its interior had to be obtained by other means.
The House of Mrs. Musica

The house of music was eagerly expected, and the press closely followed its completion.
Colourful Construction Stages

The construction phases progressed briskly despite minor difficulties.
The Opening Ceremony

The house was completed in the fall of 1931, but it was officially inaugurated in May of the following year.

A Long-awaited Concert Hall

High expectations were set for the concert hall and its functionality was evaluated already in the very first concert.
Disagreement About the Architect’s Fee

The distinctive architecture of the house did not meet everyone’s expectations, and the architect’s fee was considered too high.
The Building in Exceptional Circumstances

Over the decades, the house has faced both bombings and the coronavirus pandemic.
Updating the Facilities

With practical experience, there was a need to upgrade facilities and correct deficiencies.
Major Renovations

In connection with the renovations, a chamber music hall was built, and the teaching facilities were thoroughly renovated.
Two Hearts in One House

The concert hall is a window into society, and the café is a gathering place for students and staff.