REHABILITATION OF THE HEADQUARTERS OF THE
NATIONAL PHILHARMONIC S. LUNCHEVICI
Keywords: music, philharmonic, rehabilitation, art.
The main goal of the research is to determine the need for the restoration of the National Philharmonic in the Republic of Moldova, in the city of Chisinau, and assess its relevance to contemporary society.
The National Philharmonic of Chisinau, named after Serghei Lunchevici, is a central hub for national and international culture and music, as well as a beloved place for the residents of the Republic of Moldova. Founded in 1940, the National Philharmonic has become a vital concert venue in the country over the course of 80 years, hosting a wide range of events in various genres including classical music, folklore, pop, and jazz. Renowned ensembles such as "Joc," "Fluieraş," "Lăutarii," and others have performed at the National Philharmonic. It has also welcomed distinguished cultural figures such as Serghei Lunchevici, Vladimir Kurbet, Nicolae Botgros, Nicolae Sulac, Tamara Chobanu, and more.
From 1954 until the present day, the National Philharmonic has been located in a building on Mitropolit Varlaam Street 78, Chisinau. The building was constructed in 1912-1913, underwent renovations in 1958-1961, and was repaired after earthquakes that occurred in 1977 and 1986. On September 24, 2020, a fire broke out during repair works, resulting in the almost complete destruction of 3,500 square meters of the Philharmonic building. The roof and dome burned down and collapsed inside the building. The main concert hall was completely destroyed, and the Small Hall suffered significant damage. The Folklore Orchestra and the Concertino ensemble temporarily rehearse at the National Palace, while the choir and symphony orchestra of the Philharmonic use the Palace of the Republic.
Since the fire that destroyed the National Philharmonic Hall, Chisinau has lacked a dedicated building for acoustic music. Some existing spaces are suitable for chamber music or small shows. Currently, the largest music venue in Chisinau is the multi-functional hall of the National Palace named after Nicolae Sulac, which has 2,000 seats and hosts performances by philharmonic ensembles during the post-fire period.
The objective is to construct a representative building for national and international music with exceptional acoustic characteristics and aesthetic potential that will bring international recognition to the country. The general tasks include preserving the historical 19th-century façade and rotunda in the project while proposing a new hall that meets all acoustic and aesthetic requirements. The project should also include a restaurant and all necessary supporting facilities.
The outcome of the project proposal is to provide cultural and leisure services, promote the development and awareness of classical music among the population. The building for national and international music, with exceptional acoustic characteristics and aesthetic potential, will bring international recognition to the country.
