Northeastern students and alumni gathered last Thursday to celebrate the dedication of the Fenway Center, which is being transformed into Northeastern’s premiere music performance space.

The event allowed current and past Northeastern students to meet while celebrating the official opening of the center. Northeastern purchased the building, formerly St. Ann University Parish, from the Boston Archdiocese in 2005.

The transformation of the building is the latest step in the expansion of the department of music. Previous steps have included the construction of an on-campus recording studio as well as a computer music laboratory.

“Where else is more fitting for our creative enterprises and the community to come together?” said Deanna Jantzen, director of the board of trustees, in her keynote address.

The event , which was co-hosted by the Office of Alumni Relations and the music department, featured performances by the NU Choral Society, the Majestic Brass Quintet, the NU Wind Ensemble and the NU Orchestra. Many of the pieces performed featured alumni soloists.

“We promoted the event to alumni as a chance to hear Northeastern choral and music groups,” said Amy Belmore, director of signature events for the Office of Alumni Relations.

Many students said they were excited by the chance to work with alumni and to share their post-Husky experiences.

“It was just cool seeing the alumni and what they’ve done after Northeastern,” said senior music industry major Kristina Grossman.

Others said they enjoyed the space, lauding its beauty and acoustics.

“The acoustics are terrific. You can hear it resonate really well,” said sophomore music industry major Christopher Celentano, who performed in the orchestra. “I think the space is just fun, since it’s an old church and all.”

The excitement was shared by faculty members.

“It was very satisfying working with the alumni,” said professor Allen Feinstein, conductor of the orchestra.

Feinstein said the Fenway Center would be a valuable venue for the performing groups.

“We’re thrilled to be in this space and to bring all the musical groups together,” he said. “It’s got a nice resonance, a nice warmth and [it] allows our ensembles to really shine.”

Administration and faculty said the new space will contribute to both Northeastern and the surrounding communities.