Tianjin Juilliard School (TJS) is a center for performance, practice, research, and interactive exhibitions with shared spaces designed to welcome the public into the creative process and performance of music. TJS is the first performing arts institution in China to confer a U.S.-accredited Master of Music (MM) degree.
The new school also includes a Saturday college preparatory program for students ages 8 to 18; continuing education programs for professional and adult learners; public education programs for music students of all ages; and public performances. The 32,500-square-foot (350,000-square-foot) building, located in the financial district of Eugiapu, was designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro, the same firm that was responsible for the 2009 expansion of New York’s iconic Juilliard House.
The building consists of four faceted pavilions that house a 690-seat concert hall, a 299-seat concert hall, a 225-seat black box theater, and administrative, faculty and rehearsal programs. Five glass bridges encompass an expansive public space that extends the surrounding park into the building, inviting students, visitors and concert-goers to socialize, relax and experience the practice and informal performances of students. The glass bridges contain classrooms, teaching studios and practice rooms, encouraging visual and auditory access to the study of music, inviting exchanges between students, faculty and visitors.
The school uses advanced telecommunication and videoconferencing technology to ensure a high degree of communication and cooperation between students and faculty at Tianjin Julliard School and The Juilliard School in New York. For example, the Juilliard Imagination space is a digitally-connected exhibition space capable of hosting live concerts between both Juilliard facilities.