Waikato Cathedral Church of St Peter has officially announced that the first stage of its Strengthening and Restoration Programme, the Music Centre, will be named in honour of Dame Malvina Major. The Dame Malvina Major Music Centre recognises Dame Malvina’s extraordinary contribution to New Zealand’s musical and cultural life, her lifelong commitment to nurturing music and young musicians, and her support as an Appeal Patron for the Cathedral’s vision for the future.
The announcement was made by Murray Bindon, Chair of the Cathedral Appeal, during Dame Malvina Major Presents A Night at the Opera on Thursday 6th August at the BNZ Theatre. The gala performance was held in support of the strengthening and restoration of one of Hamilton’s most significant heritage buildings.
Appeal Chair Murray Bindon said naming the Music Centre in Dame Malvina’s honour was a fitting recognition of her remarkable contribution to New Zealand’s cultural life and the inspiration she has provided to generations of musicians.
“The Dame Malvina Major Music Centre will be much more than a building. It will be a place where people of all ages can learn, rehearse, perform and experience music for generations to come. It represents an investment in the future of music, education and our community.”
The Very Reverend Julian Perkins, Dean of St Peter’s Cathedral, said music has always been central to the Cathedral’s identity.
“Music has always been at the heart of St Peter’s Cathedral. Dame Malvina was a parishioner and part of the Cathedral community for many years, and we are honoured that her name will now be part of the Cathedral’s story, continuing to inspire generations to come.”
The Dame Malvina Major Music Centre is the first stage of the Cathedral’s wider Strengthening and Restoration Programme. The purpose-built centre will provide spaces for music education, rehearsals, performance preparation and community programmes, while also enabling earthquake strengthening of the Cathedral Nave.
