Andr_ Peyrgne, director of the conservatory, told Agence France-Presse that the upgrade would bring Nice in line with other major French cities such as Bordeaux, Nantes and Grenoble, all of which have modern conservatories. The building was designed by architect Jean-Loup Roubert, whose credits include the Reims Conservatory and the restoration of the Paris Opera's Palais Garnier. Construction lasted for two years and was funded by city and regional government.

Built on a hill overlooking the city center, the new building boasts a state-of-the-art 750-seat auditorium; 150 practice rooms; four dance studios; studios for organ, jazz and electronic music; and an open-air theater.

More than one million euros were spent on instruments, in particular electro-acoustic instruments.

The Conservatoire de Nice was founded in 1916 and celebrates its 90th anniversary this year; It was previously housed in the 19th-century Villa Paradiso. Alumni include Pierre Cochereau and Eve Ruggieri.