Elder Hall’s grand piano part of grand plan

Sydney born and raised singer-songwriter, Nico Wyatt-Smith, knew he wanted to propose to his partner Diana in an intimate and unique way that reflected his musical talents.
A romantic at heart, in the past he had written love songs for his now fiancé and played them at home on his piano on their anniversaries, but he felt popping the question called for something more special, something grander.

The couple made the move from Sydney to Adelaide in July 2021. Here, Nico began his search for a suitable venue with a grand piano. 

Despite knowing little about his new hometown, Nico was thrilled to discover the University of Adelaide’s Elder Conservatorium of Music, Australia’s oldest tertiary music school dating back to 1883. “When I saw Elder Hall and the sheer size of it, I thought I would see if it was available for hire. I liked the idea of a huge hall just for two people.” Nico said.

 When I saw Elder Hall and the sheer size of it, I thought I would see if it was available for hire. I liked the idea of a huge hall just for two people.Nico Wyatt-Smith

Elder Hall has been a place to celebrate the wonder of music for more than a hundred years and is the heart of the Elder Conservatorium of Music. With its stunning organ which was built in 1901 by J.E. Dodd, visitors can’t help but be in awe of the spectacular space. 

This is exactly the effect Nico was aiming for to impress his audience of one. “Because of the occasion, I wanted to make my proposal imposing and memorable,”

On Saturday 18 December 2021, Nico proposed by singing and playing to Diana on Elder Hall’s grand piano “All I need is you”, a song that he instinctively wrote for her after a trip to Sydney where he shared with family and friends his plans to make Diana his wife.