Business Details
45 Years
experience
Southwest Community Concert Performances & Education
Founded in 1981, our organization has dedicated over four decades to advancing musical education and community engagement through concert band performances. Our leadership team, including Musical Director Ray Forlenza with 35+ years of experience, has cultivated programs like Winter Band Day and Summer Band Camp that have impacted thousands of young musicians. We maintain rigorous artistic standards while prioritizing accessibility, offering complimentary concerts and educational initiatives that serve Orland Park and surrounding communities.Our 501(c)(3) nonprofit status reflects our commitment to transparent operations and public benefit, evidenced by our annual food drives collecting over 500 lbs of donations. Through strategic venue partnerships and a growing 1,200-piece music library, we continue expanding our outreach while preserving core values of musical excellence and community service.
Services
Community Concerts
Summer Band Camp
Winter Band Day
Master Classes
Ensemble Performances
Music Library Access
Details
- Year established: 1981
Highlights and features
- 43-year history of community musical service since 1981
- Offers free concerts and educational programs for all ages
- Professional director with 35+ years of local music education experience
- Diverse performance ensembles from jazz combos to full concert bands
- Community impact through annual food drives and senior facility visits
Associations and certifications
- 501(c)(3) Not-For-Profit Organization
Services
Community Concerts
Seasonal concerts featuring diverse musical repertoire performed at local churches and community venues. These complimentary events showcase our 50+ member ensemble's capabilities while providing cultural enrichment opportunities for southwest suburban audiences.
Summer Band Camp
Week-long educational program for grades 1-9 focusing on fundamental music skills and ensemble performance. Professional instructors guide students through daily rehearsals and culminating performances that build confidence and technical proficiency in young musicians.
Winter Band Day
Annual non-competitive music festival offering junior high/middle school students specialized instruction and performance opportunities. Participants receive expert coaching on new musical arrangements before presenting a collaborative concert demonstrating their enhanced abilities.
Master Classes
Instrument-specific workshops led by professional musicians covering advanced techniques and performance practices. These sessions provide both students and adults personalized instruction to refine their musical skills through hands-on learning experiences.
Ensemble Performances
Flexible performance units including brass quintets, clarinet sextets, and jazz combos available for private events. These smaller groups offer tailored musical selections ranging from classical compositions to contemporary arrangements for various ceremonial and social occasions.
People
Ray Forlenza
Musical Director
Begun with the band in 1988, Ray holds music education degrees from VanderCook College. He directs Kirby School District's band program and has expanded educational initiatives including Winter Band Day and Summer Band Camp.
Questions
How can I join the Southwest Community Concert Band?
New members are welcome at weekly Tuesday rehearsals. Contact us via email for audition requirements and membership details.
Are concert tickets required for admission?
All concerts are complimentary, though a $10 suggested donation helps support our music library and educational programs.
What youth music programs do you offer?
We provide Summer Band Camp for grades 1-9 and Winter Band Day for middle school students, both with specialized instruction and performance opportunities.
How does the band support local communities?
Through annual food drives collecting over 500 lbs for local pantries, retirement home performances, and free public concerts across southwest Chicago suburbs.
Can I request specific musical pieces for performances?
Our 1,200-piece library includes diverse repertoire. Directors consider special requests while maintaining balanced concert programming.
