Transformational contribution enables enhanced music experience for Monash students

Monash University students will be empowered to engage in real-time performance and learning opportunities with world-leading practitioners through a new Digital Hub, enabled by a transformational contribution from Mr David Li AM, Honorary Fellow of Monash and Deputy Chairman of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra.

The new hub will be host to state-of-the-art technology, allowing audio-visual streamings with leading music practitioners from locations across the world, globalising students’ learning experience.

Head of the Sir Zelman Cowen School of Music, Professor Cat Hope, said the Digital Hub will offer students a truly immersive and international music education.

“This unparalleled facility will further opportunities to participate in the international exchange of knowledge and creativity, and provide high-quality recordings for all music students at Monash,” she said.

“This extraordinary development wouldn’t be possible without the generosity and commitment of Mr Li. We’re deeply grateful for his contribution, which will help position Monash as a world leader in tertiary music education.”

Additional features of the Digital Hub include:

• Central control room flanked by two live rooms, improving the studio experience for both engineers and performers;
• Outstanding and flexible acoustics;
• Increased teaching possibilities through a modern and flexible studio environment;
• Collaborative performance experiences and the creation of digital portfolios

Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Professor Sharon Pickering, said: “Mr Li is an accomplished leader in bringing Australia and the world together through the universal language of music, arts and education.

“We’re extremely humbled by Mr Li’s passion, energy, enthusiasm and philanthropic contributions to Monash.”

In recognition of Mr Li’s transformational contribution supporting the creation of the Digital Hub, the 130-seat Sound Gallery at The Ian Potter Centre for Performing Arts has been renamed in his honour.

Monash Honorary Fellow, distinguished business leader and philanthropist, David Li AM, said: “I’m greatly looking forward to seeing how the Digital Hub transforms music research and education at Monash, and enriches the cultural exchange between Australian and international artists.”

Mr Li’s transformational contribution forms part of the University’s Change It. For Good. campaign, which is the largest public fundraising initiative in Monash’s history.