Supervisor Fiona Ma: New Beginnings for Conservatory

Many people are not aware that the Conservatory of Music building at 19th Avenue and Ortega Street was originally built as an orphanage in 1929.

The distinctive building, designed by architect Louis Christian Mullgardt, was built and furnished for a mere $165,000. In 1956, the Conservatory of Music purchased the building and it has been recognized as a center for music and education in the west side and San Francisco since.

As many community members may be aware, the Conservatory of Music is expected to move out of the 19th Avenue property to a new home in the Civic Center area in 2006. When I first heard that the Conservatory of Music was planning to move out of this building, I began to research the possibility of a city purchase of the property for use as a comprehensive senior center.

To this end, I have held several meetings with representatives from the SF Recreation and Park Department, Mayor's Office of Community Development, SF Department of Aging and Adult Services, community groups, city departments and Conservatory board members and staff.

The feedback I have received from all interested parties has expanded the vision for the future of the Conservatory to encompass a multi-service center serving residents across all age groups.

The next steps we are looking at include researching and developing an outline of the needs in District 4 for intergenerational programs as well as the needs for bilingual/bicultural services in our neighborhood. We are also working with the Recreation and Park Department and the city attorney's office to draft a preliminary understanding to be presented to the Conservatory of Music.

A local Sunset District organization, the Sunset Parkside Education and Action Committee (SPEAK), is currently sponsoring designation of the Conservatory as a historic landmark. The application is scheduled to be considered by the Landmark Advisory Board in June or July. The Conservatory has expressed that they will not be opposing the process.

The building is a blend of Mission Revival and Baroque styles and is one of the last important structures designed by Mullgardt still standing. The building's size and form make it a prominent landmark along 19th Avenue and one of the most prominent structures in the Sunset District.

I believe this unique site has the potential of reaching out to thousands of west side residents who need, but are not currently accessing, many of the city's social services. I am very interested in receiving input and ideas from residents and groups in the neighborhood. Contact my office at 554-7460.

Supervisor Fiona Ma represents District 4.