Shopping centres need to innovate and create new services and offers to remain relevant in their communities.  Melbourne’s Galleria in the heart of the CBD has done just that. Today, marking international ‘Make Music Day’ (21 June) they officially open The Music Gym.  The Music Gym is a new concept for adults wanting to realise their creativity as well as meeting like-minded music lovers.  So don’t be surprised when visiting this shopping centre in downtown Melbourne, that that you hear the joyous sounds of tunes and tapping feet…

Make Music Day is a worldwide phenomenon observed by hundreds of millions of people in 800 cities across 120 countries. The day brings people of all styles, ages and skill levels together to make and enjoy music, with 2018 the first year Australia is participating.

The Music Gym is the brainchild of Catherine Prifti, a music teacher of 21 years. Catherine has been immersed in the world of music for over two decades, working across Australia and Europe with her specialised skill set as a pianist, conductor and teacher.

The concept for a music gym came about after Catherine noticed that while many adults have a strong interest in learning and performing music, expensive instruments and costly private lessons stopped many from realising their passion.

Enter, The Music Gym: grown-ups only group classes with state-of-the-art instruments provided, at a convenient location where you can fit in a class during a lunch break or before or after work.

“I am so happy we have been able to realise this concept. There are so many people who will directly benefit from theability to learn and practice music, whether it’s their dream to perform for a special occasion or just for general enjoymentand mental health,” says Catherine.

“Our space is like an urban oasis, an escape from the office grind for the busy CBD worker who may not enjoy the gym or any other traditional stress relievers.”

Music has been credited to be an extremely positive social activity for adults to engage in, particularly amongst office workers and employees. It offers the opportunity to network with others and boost productivity, while singing and listening to music have been proven to reduce stress levels.

Galleria is a bustling city corner of shops and eateries in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD, on the corner of Elizabeth and Bourke Streets, opposite Bourke St Mall. Galleria Regional Centre Manager Lisa Fleming is proud to launch The Music Gym at their CBD location.

“The Music Gym will be a breath of fresh air for the city workers who frequent Galleria. It’s such a fun addition to our little corner of Melbourne, with a non-stop jam session going right by all the offices,” says Lisa.

The Music Gym will offer voice, piano and guitar lessons, at affordable casual-session, 10-pack, 3-month, 6-month and 12- month subscription rates.