Concord Conservatory of MusicConcord Conservatory of Music
Looking for an activity that boosts your physical and mental well-being while connecting you with others? The answer is simple—singing!
We often hear about the benefits of learning an instrument, but improving your singing technique and joining a chorus also offers all those advantages and more.
Singing not only boosts mental health by relieving stress, lifting your mood, and fostering a sense of
community, but it also sharpens the mind, enhancing memory, focus, and brain function. It strengthens the body by improving lung capacity, posture, and heart health. Beyond the physical and mental benefits, singing builds confidence by empowering self-expression and boosting self-esteem. Plus, group singing, such as the Singing With Parkinson’s Chorus, creates meaningful connections, fostering teamwork and helping to combat isolation.
Customize Your Vocal Workout by Genre
Singing classical, pop, and bluegrass songs each comes with its own set of vocal tricks, thanks to the unique vibes of each genre. Classical singing is all about control—think perfect breath, posture, and resonance—plus a big vocal range and the ability to hit those dynamics with precision. Pop, however, is a bit more laid-back, using a mix of chest and head voice with a focus on feeling, phrasing, and connecting with the audience. Then there’s bluegrass, which embraces a raw, folk-inspired style with lots of storytelling, tight harmonies, and high-energy, expressive vocals. While all three styles share the need for good breath control, each one has its own flavor, requiring different techniques and skills to really nail it. No matter the genre, we’re helping individuals de-stress and have fun through singing.
Beyond the Notes, a groundbreaking concept created by the visionary violinist Sarah Whitney pushes the limits of classical music. These local concerts invite audiences to step into an interactive experience where they are integral to the performance.
Attendees have the unique opportunity to engage with the musicians, asking questions that inspire lively exchanges, blending conversation and music into an electrifying symphony.
On Saturday, November 16th, our very own CCM student musicians set the stage with prelude performances for this one-of-a-kind concert. Get to know the students, Joanna Stearns and Claire Jennings, who went above and beyond to share their talent with our community.
Joanna Stearns, violin, J.S.Bach Concerto N. 2 in E major (BWV 1042), I. Allegro
“I started playing the violin at about 6 years old after falling in love with the sound and I have been attending many lessons and performances since. My greatest accomplishment with the violin was auditioning and being accepted into the MMEA eastern junior district festival twice—I had such a fun experience with that! I’m so thankful for being invited to perform on the Beyond the Notes stage, and hope everyone enjoyed the performance!”
Claire Jennings, piano, Rachmaninov Humoresque, Op. 10, No 5
I began learning piano when I was seven. I thought piano was a really cool instrument and I liked learning new and difficult pieces. When I was a kid, I didn’t have much of an appetite for classical music, but I’m glad that I kept learning piano all these years because the more I played, the more music I came to appreciate that I wouldn’t otherwise be exposed to. There’s so much great piano music to explore and I intend to keep learning as much of it as I can.”
After more than eight years as the Development and Marketing Manager at Concord Conservatory of Music, Sue Seger will be trading in her work laptop for retirement!
Sue’s passion for non-profit work, her knack for connecting with people, and her ability to foster community have been invaluable to CCM. She has elevated our presence in the community with her dedication and enthusiasm. Most importantly, she’s been an extraordinarily kind and caring colleague who’s always willing to lend a hand.
As a proud grandmother of little Ben, with a new granddaughter on the way, Sue is looking forward to spending more time with her family. While she will be dearly missed at CCM, we wish her all the best in her retirement. We’ll miss her warmth, her can-do attitude, her opinions on chocolate, and her unwavering dedication to ensuring the Monday Morning Message was sent out, rain or shine.
From all of us at CCM, thank you, Sue!
We’re thrilled to announce that Sara Seng has joined our team as the new Marketing and
Communications Manager.
“I’m passionate about the arts and excited to contribute to the vibrant community at CCM,” says Sara. “I look forward to sharing the inspiring stories of our talented students and faculty with the world.”
When she’s not busy crafting compelling campaigns, Sara enjoys spending quality time with her adorable French bulldog, Lola. So, feel free to ask about her four-legged friend! Please join us in welcoming Sara to the team. We’re excited to see the creativity and strategies she’ll bring to the table.
Connecting CCM Students and Seniors Through Their Music
On Sunday, December 8th, CCM students performed at Orchard Hill Assisted Living in Sudbury.
Their Activity Director Sandy Ferraro shared, “The kids were terrific, and our residents really enjoyed the performance! I introduced Yiqiao Gu, the young violinist, to Pat, a 98-year-old classically trained violinist who still practices daily. Pat recognized the piece and praised Yiqiao’s playing. It was a sweet moment. CCM faculty members Kitty and Rose were also wonderful with the group and extremely talented!”
CCM’s Tree-Mendous Tribute to iconic Composer John Cage
The Concord Museum’s 29th Annual Family Trees: A Celebration of Children’s Literature celebrates children’s books and the joy of reading. From now until January 1, 2025, our community can explore dozens of uniquely decorated trees, each inspired by a beloved picture book. This year, CCM Board Member Alison Ruch, along
with CCM parents Sophia Garmey and Meghan Clinard, decorated a fabulous tree that brings music to the forefront.
The trio created a tree that beautifully reflects the book, Beautiful Noise: The Music of John Cage. Alison shares her excitement about the project, saying, “We had such fun together creating a tree to depict Beautiful Noise, and we were thrilled to represent CCM in this community tradition.”
The Family Trees event brings local families together to celebrate literature, with hand-made decorations inspired by children’s books adorning each tree. Visitors immerse themselves in this artistic experience, reading together as a family or embarking on a festive scavenger hunt through the decorated trees. Whether rediscovering classic tales or exploring new works from award-winning local authors, the event offers a one-of-a-kind celebration of storytelling for all ages.
For more information on admission and exhibit hours, visit Concord Museum’s website.
November’s Adult Musicale
What a fantastic turnout at the Adult Musicale, with so many adult private lesson students attending! They had the opportunity to receive valuable, constructive feedback after performing their polished pieces for their peers.
CCM voice instructor Rose Hegele, who recently hosted an Adult Musicale, shared her enthusiasm, saying, “The Adult Musicale was one of the most fulfilling and exciting experiences I’ve had at CCM! We had seven performances, including a jazz chamber group, solo violinists, a husband-and-wife voice and piano duo, and solo pianists. Both participants and audience members provided supportive and constructive feedback to the performers.”
The CCM 2024–2025 Concert & Lecture Series
Join us for an unforgettable night of authentic bluegrass with The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys on Saturday, January 25th at 7:00 pm!
Hailing from the Smoky Mountains, this hard-driving band captures the true spirit and energy of the genre. Their music cuts through the noise and speaks directly to the soul. From rural bluegrass festivals to rock clubs across Europe, they’ve wowed audiences worldwide—and now they’re bringing their electrifying sound to Concord Conservatory.
$35 General Admission / Free for students 18 and under
PURCHASE TICKETS IN ADVANCE or at the door on the night of the concert.
Mark your calendars and get your tickets today for these terrific concerts and lectures!
Music & Rebels
Friday, February 7, 7:30 pm
Around Hear
Saturday, March 22, 2:00 pm
Southern Rail
Saturday, April 26, 7:00 pm
We’re grateful to our sponsors!
We invite all music enthusiasts and businesses to sponsor our Concert & Lecture Series. If you’re interested, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at (978) 369-0010. We would love to discuss how you can be part of this exciting series.
Lead Concert Series Sponsor Music Supporter Sponsor
Our students don’t just experience music—they create it, find joy in it, and grow through it. Your generous support will ensure we can continue providing high-quality instruction and life-changing programs.
You make a meaningful difference by…
Empowering Young Musicians: Your $50 gift opens the door for a kid to receive a lesson with an inspiring
teaching artist.
Giving the Gift of Music: Your $250 gift ensures our Concert & Lecture Series is affordable for our community.
Inspiring Future Generations: Your $500 gift provides free creative and supportive workshops for our students to achieve their dreams.
Enhancing the Learning Experience: Your $750 gift helps equip our faculty with the latest teaching technology and resources to elevate their instruction.
Creating a Vibrant Music Community for Everyone: Your $1,000 gift supports our community outreach performances at assisted living residences, where seniors experience live music once again.
Your donation can make a life-changing impact. Help us ensure every student has the chance to follow their dream, no matter their circumstances. Thank you!