FREE Online Masterclass Monday Series
Step into the virtual classroom with VanderCook College of Music’s exceptional faculty. Our FREE Online Masterclass Series is a vibrant space for students and educators to master new instrumental and vocal techniques, sharpen skills, and fuel your musical passion.
This isn't just a lecture - it's a hands-on experience. Grab your instrument and join the session ready to play and engage!
Watch Live or On-Demand: We know life gets busy. Everyone who registers gets the full video recording sent straight to their inbox to watch whenever fits your schedule.
Ready to join us? Register for free using the links below.
*All events are at 7 PM Central Time via Zoom.
Wednesday, September 11, 2024
Productive Practice Habits
From getting organized and setting goals, to the psychological aspects of learning a piece of music. Simple, yet powerful ideas, from the perspective of a tubist, to get more out of your practice sessions on any instrument.
Masterclass Postponed to Wednesday, October 9, 2024
Finger-style Arpeggios for Classical and Acoustic Guitarists
Arpeggios are an essential technique in both finger-style and classical guitar repertoire.
In this one-hour master class/workshop, we will explore techniques to increase arpeggio speed and volume and improve arpeggio accuracy and tone. We will play exercises, studies, and excerpts from pieces that you can incorporate into your daily arpeggio practice.
Monday, October 21, 2024
Get REEDY for Concert Band Season!
The oboe reed is a mystery to many! Everyone's mouth, air stream, and oboes are different and it's rare that the reed you purchase online will work perfectly for you.
Learn about how the oboe reed works and how to make adjustments so you can play on the best reed for YOU this school year!
Monday, October 28, 2024
10 Steps to Success: Strategies Any Musician Can Use to 'Level Up'
What can an artist in the medium of music do to accelerate their progress?
This class will focus on tips to propel your music making forward. Clarinet will be the demonstration instrument, but the ideas and principles highlighted will apply to all musicians.
Dr. Chris O'Hara on Trumpet
October 12, 2026 @ 7pm CST
An internationally renowned soloist and founding member of Synergy Brass Quintet, Dr. Chris O’Hara has performed over 3,000 concerts across prestigious global stages. A clinician for Conn-Selmer and Denis Wick, his broadcasts span NPR, NBC, and WGN.
Prof. John Schreckengost on Horn
November 9, 2026 @ 7pm CST
Bringing decades of orchestral expertise to VanderCook, Prof. John Schreckengost leads applied horn instruction. A master teacher and clinician, he specializes in brass pedagogy, tone production, and preparing students for competitive auditions.
Prof. Jade Maze on Voice
December 14, 2026 @ 7pm CST
Prof. Jade Maze holds a Master of Music from Northwestern University and is a Ravinia teaching artist. Recipient of the Clementine Skinner Award for her contributions to Chicago's music culture, she guides vocalists across classical, jazz, and contemporary styles.
NEW! Dr. Mariana Gariazzo on Flute
January 11, 2027 @ 7pm CST
Dr. Mariana Gariazzo is an acclaimed flutist and faculty member at VanderCook College of Music. A UT Austin DMA graduate specializing in Latin American music, she has served as NFA Program Chair and Low Flutes Festival Executive Director.
Dr. Anna Bradford on Oboe
February 8, 2027 @ 7pm CST
Praised for her “confident and sensitive playing”, Dr. Anna Bradford holds positions with the Bangor and Peoria Symphonies and performs internationally with the Kalliope Reed Quintet.She directs double-reed instruction with a dedicated, student-centered approach.
Prof. Dianne Ryan on Bassoon
March 8, 2027 @ 7pm CST
Dianne Ryan is Principal Bassoon of the Elmhurst Symphony and founder of the popular “Bassoon Boot Camp.” A veteran Chicago freelance artist and ILMEA clinician, she has toured internationally and performed alongside artists from Ray Charles to the Moody Blues.
Dr. Julie Goldberg on Guitar
April 12, 2027 @ 7pm CST
Named Guitarist of the Year by "Classical Guitar Alive," Dr. Julie Goldberg was the first guitarist to earn a doctorate in performance from Northwestern University. She directs guitar studies and the annual Day of Guitar festival.
Prof. James Sanders on Violin/Viola
May 10, 2027 @ 7pm CST
Holding a Master’s from Yale University, James Sanders performs with the Chicago Sinfonietta and leads renowned Latin jazz ensembles like Conjunto. He bridges classical precision with vibrant jazz improvisation while coordinating regional string programs.
