Illinois Valley Community College is set to showcase the talent of its music ensembles with three remarkable holiday concerts next week. These performances will bring the joy of the season to the campus and beyond.

Experience the Magic of Holiday Music at IVCC

Choir's Monday Performance

The choir, under the expert guidance of Jenilyn Roether, is all set to kick off the week on Monday, December 2. They will grace the stage with a diverse selection of musical pieces. From the powerful "Zion's Walls" to the timeless "Hallelujah" by Leonard Cohen and the glorious selections from Handel's "Messiah," along with "In the Bleak Midwinter" and many more. This is a chance to immerse oneself in the beauty of choral music and feel the spirit of the holidays.The choir's performance is a testament to the dedication and talent of its members. It showcases their ability to bring different musical styles and emotions to life. Each note is carefully crafted to create a harmonious and moving experience for the audience.

Jazz Ensemble's Tuesday Showcase

On Tuesday, December 3, the Jazz Ensemble takes the stage under the direction of Brandon Czubachowski. They will present standard and new arrangements by prominent composers and arrangers. The end-of-semester concert this season is filled with holiday medleys and favorites by Michael Sweeney, John Lennon, Roger Holmes, Bob Thurston, Louis Belsom and Mark Taylor, Andrew Palmer and Sammy Nestico.The Jazz Ensemble's performance is a celebration of the genre's rich history and its ability to adapt and evolve. Their arrangements add a modern twist to classic holiday tunes, creating a unique and exciting listening experience. From the upbeat "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy" to the soulful "John Lennon Medley" and the captivating "Blue Skies" featuring Frederic Davis as vocalist, each piece showcases the ensemble's musical prowess.

Wind Ensemble's Thursday Extravaganza

The Wind Ensemble performs at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, December 5. Under the direction of conductor Phil Whaley, this ensemble includes IVCC students, local and regional music educators, and community members. They will present a diverse range of works by Gustav Holst, Robert W. Smith, Timothy Mahr, Brian Balmages, Claude T. Smith and Darrell W. Jenkins.The pieces include "First Suite in E Flat," "Ireland: of Legend and Lore," "Pride, Promise and Progress," "Rail Riffs," "A Rhapsody on Christmas Carols," and "Variations on 'A Mighty Fortress.'" The Wind Ensemble's performance is a testament to the power of wind instruments and their ability to create a grand and majestic sound. It is a must-see event for music lovers of all ages.

Saturday's Special Concert

On Saturday, December 14, Roether will be a featured soloist as the IVCC Choir joins the Ottawa High School choirs and the Illinois Valley Symphony Orchestra onstage. The concert begins at 4 p.m. at the OTHS auditorium.Roether will solo on selections from Handel's "Messiah," and the groups also perform Michael W. Smith's "Glory Overture" and Shaw/Bennett's "Many Moods of Christmas." This is a unique collaboration that brings together the talents of different musical groups and showcases the diversity and richness of holiday music.Tickets for this concert are available through the IVSO website at ivso.org.All three Illinois Valley Community College music ensembles are coming together to ring in the holiday season with these unforgettable concerts. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the magic of holiday music at IVCC.