FAQs

American Grands is a musical event featuring local musicians performing on grand pianos at the Elgin Community College (ECC) Arts Center. For three decades, this musical extravaganza has brought together pianists of all ages and levels. Levels range from beginning piano students to professional pianists and teachers. Music is specially selected for each level, featuring classical, theatrical, and original compositions, as well as popular arrangements, making every concert unique. The stage is filled with 12 grand pianos, a drum kit, and our fearless, humorous conductor, Colin Holman. 

This event is only possible through the generous support of Cordogan’s Pianoland.

The event will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at the ECC Arts Center in Elgin, Illinois. Performances will take place in the Blizzard Theatre, with rehearsals held 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 9, 2025, from 3 pm to 8 pm. However, applications must be received by Friday, August 29, 2025.

Rehearsals:  

Detailed rehearsal schedules will be included in your music packet. All rehearsals are in Elgin Community College Building H (Room 318 and ECC Arts Center’s Blizzard Theatre). 

Saturday, January 10, 2026 – First rehearsal (Levels 1-4)
Sunday, January 11, 2026 – First rehearsal (Levels 5 – Teacher/Performer)
Tuesday, January 20, 2026 – Second rehearsal (Levels 1-4)
Wednesday, January 21, 2026 – Second rehearsal (Levels 5 – Teacher/Performer)
Thursday, January 22, 2026 – Third rehearsal (Levels 1-4)
Friday, January 23, 2026 – Third rehearsal (Levels 5 – Teacher/Performer)
Saturday, January 24, 2026 – Concert Day

Performances:  

Saturday, January 24 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. Performers will be accepted via email and sent in the second week of September.

To complete the registration form, visit the Registration page.

Applications must be submitted by Friday, August 29, 2025.

• All applications should be completed accurately, clearly, and in full. All fields must be filled out, including correct teacher information. Because email is the primary method of communication with teachers, it is essential that this information is accurate. Applicants are advised to verify their teacher’s email address before submitting.
• Incomplete applications will not be accepted.
• Names will appear on posters exactly as entered on the electronic application. Applicants should use correct capitalization (e.g., “John Doe” rather than “john doe”).
• Applicants may return to this page for schedules and additional information after they have been accepted.
• Acceptance notifications and music packet pick-up details will be sent via email during the second week of September.
• If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact Stephanie Spolum at 630-391-2600.

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

Accepted performers must pick up their music on Thursday, October 9, 2025, from 3 pm to 8 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 your music packet on October 9.
• Practice and prepare your assigned pieces with support from your piano teacher.
• Attend all assigned rehearsals and performances.
• Arrive at rehearsals 20 minutes before their designated practice time.
• Agree to allow Elgin Community College to photograph/document this performance for archival and not-for-profit promotional use and to release your name and photo for promotional purposes.
• Follow the performance attire dress code.
• Please note: For the Primer level, students must be at least 6 years old and be able to read music on the staff.

Attire for the performances is formal. This concert is your chance to dress up and look your best! Please ensure your outfit and shoes allow you to move and sit on stage with comfort and confidence, especially if you are playing on an elevated piano. We recommend trying on your outfit at home and practicing at the piano.

Young Musicians:

Either a colorful formal dress (knee-length or longer - no short dresses!) OR black dress pants, black dress shoes, black socks, white shirt, and colorful bowtie.  

Adult Musicians:

Either a colorful formal dress (long or tea-length) OR a tuxedo or black suit with a bowtie. 

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 9, once you know your performance time. The prices are $30 for adults and $20 for children under 12 years old.

Buy Tickets Here