CTV News Calgary | Studio Bell
At once a performance hall, recording facility, broadcast studio, live music venue, and museum, Studio Bell is the first facility of its kind in North America.
Rising in nine subtly curved and interlocking towers, and clad in glazed terra cotta, the 160,000 square foot building designed by Allied Works Architecture references acoustic vessels, while providing sweeping views of the Bow River and surrounding cityscape. The complex also incorporates the revitalized King Edward Hotel, one of Calgary’s oldest buildings and a legendary blues club.
What if a visit to the museum was as exciting as going to a music festival? The thrill of discovering new artists, hearing new sounds, and celebrating with friends. This is the approach we take to each of our exhibitions.
As you explore Studio Bell, your curiosity will be piqued by the sounds, sights, and interactive activities pouring out of the 22 exhibition spaces located across five levels. Each space (or “stage” as we like to call them) offers an opportunity to experience music and Canadian music history—from the Kimball Theatre Organ on the Sound Affects stage to the Canadian Music Halls of Fame located on Level 5.
Access to all 22 exhibition stages is included with General Admission.
LEVEL ONE: CANADA MUSIC SQUARE
Welcome to Canada Music Square—the heart of Studio Bell. This is where you can plan your visit, purchase tickets, and take in all of the sights and sounds. This is also the meeting spot for Guided Tours.
LEVEL TWO: MUSIC MOSAIC
You could say our identity is reflected in our music. So many diverse people and cultures have contributed to the vibrant and creative Canadian music scene. Studio Bell’s second floor is dedicated to exploring the artists and innovators who make up this musical mosaic.
LEVEL THREE: POWER OF MUSIC
Music stimulates your brain, moves your body, and nourishes your soul. It can make you cry in your popcorn or yodel at the top of your lungs. Now that’s some powerful stuff! Spend time at each stage on Level Three and consider your answer to the question: how does music move you?
LEVEL FOUR: MAKING MUSIC
We can all make music! Unleash your inner rock star jamming out on the tools of the trade. Build and test instruments made from everyday objects. Then get moving to create music using your own body!
LEVEL FIVE: BEST OF CANADA
Celebrate the Canadian musicians who’ve left their mark on this country and beyond. See memorabilia from some of Canada’s biggest names, then check out the latest inductees to the Canadian Music Halls of Fame. Before you go, take a walk along the East Village Skybridge for incredible views accompanied by the sounds of the sun.
WEST BLOCK: THE ROLLING STONES MOBILE RECORDING STUDIO (RSM)
Head over to Studio Bell’s west block to catch a glimpse of the legendary Rolling Stones Mobile Recording Studio (RSM) from 9th Ave SE. Want to get even closer? The RSM is accessible to the public through weekend Backstage Pass Tours, and the RSM Listening Party Event Package. With a fully restored Helios console, the RSM is also available to book for commercial recording sessions.
LOCATION
Studio Bell is located in the heart of Calgary’s East Village at 850 4 Street SE and is easily accessible by public transit, bike, vehicle, or on foot.
PARKING
Parking is available in public lots located at 363 9 Avenue SE and 724 4 Street SE. Street parking is also available along 8 Avenue SE and throughout the East Village.
PUBLIC TRANSIT
Studio Bell is a short walk from the City Hall LRT Station. Exit the platform and walk east along 7 Avenue SE to 4 Street SE. Head south on 4 Street SE for one-and-a-half blocks and you’ll arrive at Studio Bell. The walking time to Studio Bell from the station is approximately five to seven minutes.
A bus stop is also located at the corner of 9 Avenue and 4 Street SE that is served by buses #1 and #305 (weekday rush hour).
WALK/BIKE
Studio Bell is located directly on Calgary’s bike path system and is less than a 10-minute walk from the Calgary Tower, Calgary Stampede, and Calgary City Hall. Bike racks are available along the sidewalk next to the building.
