Christchurch musicians are squaring off over the University of Canterbury's proposed Conservatorium of Music.
Some believe the conservatorium, to be built at the Arts Centre and funded by the council, would enliven the city centre, but others say it will benefit only a handful of musicians.
Hugh Stevenson, the head of department for music at Burnside High School says there are so few music students in the region that Canterbury University's school of music does not even warrant a head of department.
Mr Stevenson says council funding should be used to benefit the wider musical community.
Public hearings continue next week on the council's proposal to provide $24.3 million in funding for the conservatorium.
