The more than 100 concrete and steel workers were being thanked by PCL Construction Leaders for completing the shell of the building on time and without a single accident. When the conservatory faculty heard about the thank-you lunch, members volunteered to perform for half an hour for the workers, according to the Star.
The 1,140-seat hall will be used by the Royal Conservatory Orchestra, Glenn Gould School and RCM Community School faculty, as well as for the Conservatory's gala events, rehearsals and classes.
The Koerners, long-time arts philanthropists, were also in attendance, wearing hard hats and construction boots. Sonja Koerner told the paper, "It's my first look at the place. All I've seen up to now have been drawings. It's very impressive." Her husband reportedly added that the hall "could use a few acoustic panels. It'll be different when it's finished."