More than 400 past students and staff are expected to attend the Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University’s Reunion Weekend to be held from February 16-18.

The weekend marks the exact dates of the Conservatorium’s 50th anniversary and will begin with a special Alumni Jazz Café on Friday night, a reunion dinner on Saturday and a progressive concert on Sunday.

Conservatorium director Professor Peter Roennfeldt said the institution had five ‘homes’ in 50 years, including South Brisbane Town Hall, Gardens Point and since 1996, its present home at South Bank. Other campuses include Mackay (1989-1995) and the Gold Coast (since 1999).

“This year is the mid-point of our first 100 years, and we are both celebrating and reflecting upon our achievements. We also look forward as we reaffirm its future role within the music community.”

He said the weekend would provide an opportunity to renew acquaintances and for alumni to once again make music together.

“Our graduates are spread world-wide, continuing their passion for music and passing it on to their current students. Anyone who studied or worked at the Conservatorium is welcome to attend the reunion celebrations.”

Highlights include the progressive concert featuring the Alumni Big Band, chamber music ensembles and the Alumni Orchestra and Choir. The concert will begin at 1pm at the Gardens Theatre, QUT Gardens Point and continue at 3pm at the Conservatorium Theatre, South Bank.

To start the day’s proceedings, the South Brisbane Town Hall, now part of Somerville House, will open briefly for public inspection from 11am to 1pm. Both alumni and the general public are welcome to take part in one or all of these events.

“One of the original members of staff, Rex Hobcroft, will be awarded a Doctor of the University at the final concert,” Professor Roennfeldt said.

“Mr Hobcroft has made not only a significant contribution as our foundation Head of Piano studies, but also as Director of the Tasmanian Conservatorium in the 1960s and the Sydney Conservatorium in the 1970s.”

There will also be an extensive display of memorabilia for sale.

For more information on the reunion weekend phone 07 3735 6241 or visit www.griffith.edu.au/concerts