Antwerpen has a new initiative: roomforimprovement.be, an online platform that connects music students from the Royal Conservatoire Antwerp to residents who want to provide a space for free rehearsals. The project was started by Evert Van den Broeck and offers a solution to the shortage of affordable and accessible rehearsal spaces in the city.
Inspiration from personal experience
The inspiration for the platform came from the personal experiences of Evert's wife Eva Vennekels, who as a former piccolo student at the Royal Conservatoire Antwerp (AP Hogeschool) knows firsthand how difficult it can be to find a suitable place to practice. Rehearsing in student housing is not always possible, and the Conservatoire has too few spaces for all students. With roomforimprovement.be, Evert built a platform that bridges the gap between students and residents who have space to spare. This way they help the students and enjoy the music themselves.
How does it work?
- Residents can offer a space via the website. They indicate which instruments are welcome, whether a piano is available, and at what times the space is available, and more.
- Students can search the platform for a space that suits their needs and contact the provider to make arrangements.
- The platform is completely free and accessible to everyone in Antwerpen.
Pleased with the support
Royal Conservatoire Antwerp heartily welcomes this initiative: "We are very grateful to Evert for the initiative. Roomforimprovement.be is a valuable addition for our music students. The project is still new, but we hope that many local residents will find their way to the platform and offer a space."