FAQs

American Grands is a musical event featuring local musicians performing on grand pianos at the Elgin Community College (ECC) Arts Center. Colin Holman will conduct this extravaganza to showcase classical and popular music arranged for multiple pianos.

The event will be held on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at the ECC Arts Center in Elgin, Illinois. Performances will occur in the Blizzard Theatre, with rehearsals in Building H, Room H318, and the Blizzard Theatre.

There is a $35 participation fee per performer. This fee helps with music distribution and production costs. It can be paid online or in person via cash, credit, or check. Please ensure payment is made before the music pick-up date on October 10, 2024.

Rehearsals:  

Saturday, January 11 (Levels 1-4)

Sunday, January 12 (Levels 5 – Teacher/Performer)  

Tuesday, January 21 (Levels 1-4)

Wednesday, January 22 (Levels 5 – Teacher/Performer)  

Thursday, January 23 (Levels 1-4)  Friday, January 24 (Levels 5 – Teacher/Performer)

Performances:  

Saturday, January 25 at 4 pm and 7 pm (Levels 1-4)

If registration numbers are high, a 1 pm concert may be added.

Ensure all application fields are completed accurately. The information, including your teacher’s contact details, must be correct. Incomplete applications will not be accepted. Your name will appear when you enter it into the electronic application.

To complete the registration form, visit the Registration page here.

Applications must be submitted by Friday, August 30, 2024.

Acceptance notifications will be sent by email in the second week of September.

Accepted performers must pick up their music on Thursday, October 10, 2024, from 3:00 to 8:00 pm at the main lobby of the ECC Arts Center (Building H). This is also when you can verify the spelling of your name for the poster.

Performers must:

• Pay the $35 participation fee.
• Pick up and prepare their music
• Attend all assigned rehearsals and performances.
• Arrive at rehearsals 20 minutes before their designated time.
• Agree to allow ECC to photograph/document the performance for archival and promotional use.

Young Musicians:

Colorful formal dress (knee-length or longer) or black dress pants, black dress shoes, black socks, a white shirt, and a bow tie.  

Adult Musicians:

Colorful formal dress (long or tea-length) or a tuxedo/black suit with a bow tie. 

Please ensure your clothing and shoes are comfortable, especially if playing on an elevated piano. No nail polish, tips, acrylics, or dips are allowed—natural nails only

Tickets can be purchased after you pick up your music packet on October 10 once you know your performance time. The prices are $30 for adults and $20 for children under 12.