Conservatory of Music

Music surrounds us daily. We hear it in our cars, at work, and in the grocery store. For me, hearing a song from the 80s and 90s inadvertently brings me back to my middle school

Music surrounds us daily. We hear it in our cars, at work, and in the grocery store. For me, hearing a song from the 80s and 90s inadvertently brings me back to my middle school days. But to some, music is a career, a calling. To some, music means everything to them.

The Conservatory of Music is blocks away from my house. I pass it every time I head to work, and love that an island of refuge is made available for those who need it in this ever growing city.

I’ve been here a handful of times, but today I wanted to make my visit with the intent on featuring it as a wedding venue location here in Sioux City. And I was pleasantly surprised by the warm welcome I received from the owner, Gia.

supporting small businesses

I guess I hadn’t realized how local this business was, and that by supporting the Conservatory of Music, you are also supporting neighboring businesses who work closely with the conservatory. I also didn’t know there was a joining facility directly next door with recording rooms, and even an area to rent for events.

As I walked around the conservatory, taking pictures, Gia began playing Beastie Boys’ album Ill Communication. This was going to be an awesome afternoon!

teaching music

I learned, they have a huge selection of records, and a record player, for the youth to familiarize themselves with different genres of music. In addition, music lessons start at 4pm, and go all night. Children, to young adults, will come here to learn how to sing and play instruments, from harps to bass guitar to drums, the possibilities are endless.

There are multiple rooms designed for private lessons, lounge seating in the open foyer for conversations, and a plethora of magazines and books to help students study the history of music, and its effect on our culture.

expanding

Next door is still considered part of the conservatory, and there is a large stage with skateboard ramps attached. This is enlightening to see a safe place for young adults to come, socialize and use their energy for constructive purposes.

In fact, as I was taking my tour there were two young men setting up multiple drum sets for what I’m assuming would be a practice session.

Able to accommodate about 40 to 50 people, this would be perfect for that eclectic couple who don’t need all the bells and whistles of a traditional wedding. Gia did preference that this space is usually used for smaller receptions, but you could also hold your engagement party here as well.

cost to rent and cater

Cost to rent this space out is quite reasonable. At the cost of $175, you get access to the conservatory for two hours, then an additional $75 for every hour after that.

An added bonus, the next door “Blue Café” will cater your event if you so choose. However, to bring in an outside caterer will cost you an added $75 convenience fee.

Personally though, I would have the Blue Café cater my event for several reasons. Your guests will love the creativity Gia puts into each meal, you’re supporting a local business, and the money spent at the Blue Café goes back to the conservatory, which, in turn, helps support students in their endeavor to learn about music. Total win-win!

blue Café

My husband and I have eaten at Blue Café, and like always we went all in with a salad, main course, and dessert. I loved the fresh herbs, local ingredients and Gia’s effort and imagination she puts into her culinary creations.

wanting to avoid large crowds?

Small but mighty, this would be the perfect venue for music enthusiasts who are wanting a more trendy and upscale rental option that is within their budget. Also, close to downtown, this would the prefect place to start a celebration off with a good meal, then make your way downtown to enjoy the nightlife before your big day!

plan your visit

If you are wanting more information on the Conservatory of Music, contact Gia with your questions, and start considering what you plan to feature on your catering menu.

712-574-1751
1309 Pierce Street
Sioux City, Iowa 51103
Email: prairieproductions@me.com

Also be sure to check out the Conservatory of Music’s website (https://www.siouxcityconservatory.com/) and their Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/SiouxCityMusic/) for upcoming events, and ways you can contribute to this local business.