McHenry County College provides ensemble opportunities for musicians of all levels

McHenry County College will offer a variety of music ensembles for musicians at all level this spring.

The ensembles, which are taught by experienced McHenry County College instructors who are also frequent performers across McHenry County, are open to anyone in the community and are not exclusive to those taking music lessons or pursuing a degree at the college, according to a news release.

“We know that many musicians want to play or perform with others – but it can often be difficult to find a group,” music department chair Michael Hillstrom said in a statement. “These classes are a great opportunity to meet other local musicians while exploring your creativity and improving your musical skills.”

Available ensembles for Spring 2022 include the MCC Chorus 7 to 8:50 p.m. Thursdays, the Dixieland Band Chamber Ensemble 1 to 2:50 p.m. Thursdays, Strings and Piano Ensemble 9:30 to 11:20 a.m. Mondays, and Guitar Ensemble 5 to 6:50 p.m. Thursdays. The college also offers Jazz Ensemble and Concert Band for those looking to play with larger groups.

“We play several concerts throughout the year, so our musicians gain plenty of experience performing,” Paige Lush, who directs the Concert Band, said in a statement. “And we try to pick a variety of music and themes that participants will enjoy.”

In addition to the ensembles, McHenry County College offers one-on-one music lessons in guitar, piano, saxophone, violin, a variety of brass and woodwind instruments, and more.

Spring 2022 classes start Jan. 18 at MCC’s main campus in Crystal Lake.

To enroll in music ensemble courses, go to www.mchenry.edu/start, and to learn more about the college’s music programs, go to www.mchenry.edu/music.