Music

Students gain confidence and skill to help elevate their vocal and instrumental performances in a variety of styles. Our faculty include dedicated educators and performers who will nurture students' presence on stage.

Students have opportunities to compose original music and learn foundational music theory and composition skills that will help them develop as composers and songwriters. 

Students are equipped with the skill, passion, and understanding to advocate for the musical arts and engage in entrepreneurial activities in order to successfully navigate a broad variety of professional music activities.

The Lake Forest College Sylvan Singers (MUSC 105, .25 cr.) focuses on repertoire written exclusively for the upper voices, from all genres and time periods. Performances often include collaborations with other ensembles. Membership in this ensemble is contingent upon a voice placement hearing, held at the beginning of the semester.

The Lake Forest College Concert Choir (MUSC 206, .25 cr.) performs a variety of choral music, exploring classical, global, and popular repertoire for mixed chorus from the Renaissance through the 21st century. Concerts, both on and off campus, may include touring and collaborations with other ensembles including the Lake Forest College Band and Orchestra. Membership in this ensemble is contingent upon a voice placement hearing, held at the beginning of the semester.

The Concert Band (MUSC 107, .25 cr.) performs marches, overtures, waltzes, and suites by such composers as Vaughan Williams, Holst, Sousa, and others. The band is open to all members of the community.

The Lake Forest College Chamber Choir is an advanced choral ensemble. All singers registered for Sylvan Singers or Concert Choir may audition for Chamber Choir. The audition consists of: 1) a prepared segment from the ensemble’s repertoire selected by the instructor, 2) vocal exercises, 3) aural exercises, and 4) sight reading. Repertoire chosen for this ensemble is at an advanced level and students are expected to work individually and in sections to secure their parts for full rehearsals. Performances include collaborations with other Lake Forest College ensembles including the Concert Band and Chamber Orchestra. 

The Lake Forest College Chamber Orchestra (MUSC 108, .25 cr.) is an ensemble devoted to the performance of Baroque, Classical, Romantic and Twentieth Century repertoire. The group performs two concerts each semester and is open to all members of the College and Lake Forest communities, by audition.

The African Drumming Ensemble (MUSC 109, .25 cr.) is a hands-on workshop for students of all levels interested in learning the basics of West African drumming. Students work on developing rhythmic skills using authentic instruments and learn about the role of music in the cultures of Guinea, Mali, and other countries. The ensemble is directed by Helen Bond. Please visit her website for more information. No prerequisite.

The Lake Forest College Chamber Choir is an advanced choral ensemble. All singers registered for Sylvan Singers or Concert Choir may audition for Chamber Choir. The audition consists of: 1) a prepared segment from the ensemble’s repertoire selected by the instructor, 2) vocal exercises, 3) aural exercises, and 4) sight reading. Repertoire chosen for this ensemble is at an advanced level and students are expected to work individually and in sections to secure their parts for full rehearsals. Performances include collaborations with other Lake Forest College ensembles including the Concert Band and Chamber Orchestra. 

In addition to our various opportunities to participate in performing ensembles, Lake Forest College also offers students various avenues for independent expression. Many of our students collaborate with one another to form bands or continue solo ventures. Students enjoy supporting each other at open mic nights in the Grove and making use of the College's recording studio.