Illinois College Music Ensembles
Chamber Choir
Chamber Choir is a small ensemble of auditioned singers, specializing primarily in a capella music, but including a wide range of repertoire from all musical periods and styles. No more than sixteen members, the ensemble is designed to create a strong sense of vocal cooperation, concentration, and discipline. The ensemble performs frequently for campus and community events, and tours annually.
Choir
The Concert Choir performs a wide variety of works from the choral repertoire, from pops to sacred, both a cappella and accompanied. Under the direction of Dr. Garrett Allman, the Choir performs annually with the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra. Last season also included the premiere of A Lincoln Reflection, written for us by William Himes, and a performance of Beatitude Mass by Henry Mollicone, both conducted by the composers. This season will include a performance of Missa Luba with the internationally renowned Ethos Percussion Group , as well as Parts 2 & 3 of Handel’s Messiah.
Jazz Ensemble
The Illinois College Jazz Combo ensemble features many of our
most talented musicians. Students learn to improvise solos
while performing many contemporary music styles such as jazz, blues, rock and
Latin music. Under the direction of Marty
McCandless, this ensemble blends our vocal and instrumental departments in a
small group setting. Students are provided the structure of a group but also the freedom to express themselves
through playing or singing solos.
Instrumentation may change each semester giving this group a flexible sound.
This year we will feature some original
music written specifically for this ensemble.
Wind Ensemble
The Illinois College Wind Ensemble is a unique vehicle for furtherance of liberal arts ideals. Under the direction of Ms. Ann Marie Stahel, a primary objective is the recognition of musical talent in an individual and the nourishing and nurturing of that talent in an ensemble. The Wind Ensemble in particular encourages self discipline, concentration, cooperation, and mutual respect, all of which nurture a path toward academic excellence.
Students from all majors are welcome to participate without audition. Rehearsals are held in the evening so as not to conflict with class scheduling. There are approximately two concert performances per semester as well as the opportunity to play in Pep Band for home football and basketball games. The Wind Ensemble participates in the annual Illinois College Music Ensemble spring tour, which traveled to New York City and Philadelphia in 2008, and plays for Commencement each May on the historic upper quad.
Orchestra
Students may audition for the Jacksonville Symphony, a community orchestra that includes both professional performers and students. The Jacksonville Symphony performs at least four concerts per year, including performances with the Jacksonville Civic Choral.