In December, the St Cecilia’s Hall Redevelopment Project received first round funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

John Scally, Director of Library & Collections, said:

“As Scotland’s oldest concert hall and home to one of the greatest collections of historical musical instruments, the St Cecilia’s Hall Redevelopment will restore and transform this unique building and make its internationally recognised collection available to the wider public from Scotland and beyond. We are delighted that the Heritage Lottery Fund has agreed to support the project and share in our vision to make available one of the city’s most unique hidden treasures.”

Colin McLean, Head of the Heritage Lottery Fund in Scotland, said:

“The University of Edinburgh’s collection of musical instruments is regarded as one of the finest in the world. HLF applauds its aspiration to bring this unique collection under one roof so that many more people can study, perform and enjoy it.

“We are also delighted to give our initial support to the transformation of Scotland’s oldest purpose-built concert hall. St Cecilia’s Hall will have new life breathed into it as people explore the music that Scots have made over the centuries, while its new modern gallery will ensure that the collection is kept safe for future generations.”