MHCC Fall 2023 College plus Community

Music Classes at Mt. Hood Community College: Community in Harmony

As the rainy season approaches and beckons us back inside from the outdoors, think about honing your musical talents this fall through one of Mt. Hood Community College’s (MHCC) many community education classes. There are many ways to explore your musical side. In this article, read about three exciting community education classes open to aspiring musicians.

Wind ensemble taught by Danielle Davey

Danielle Davey, a talented musician who has taught for more than 16 years, leads the wind ensemble, which brings together musicians of all ages and backgrounds. Often referred to as a “concert band,” the wind ensemble welcomes people who have played their instrument throughout high school and can read notated music.

If your skills are a little rusty, Danielle Davey still encourages you to enroll in her class.

“Attendance is important because being in any ensemble is a team effort,” Danielle Davey said, “Even if it has been a while since you have played your instrument, we will find a place for you in our band.”

On Dec. 7, the wind ensemble will perform a set of music dedicated to the remembrance of the Pearl Harbor attack.

Symphonic choir taught by Kevin Lambert

Kevin Lambert, conductor of the symphonic choir, has been teaching this class since 2015. Lambert’s class offers a great opportunity for people seeking to boost their vocal technique, confidence, and emotional expression. Whether you’re new or returning to the joy of choral music, the symphonic choir is a great way to expand your music skills.

“Each singer in the room will take away something different, and any singer will take away something different each term they sing,” Lambert said, “Honestly, that is one of the reasons why being in a choir helps you experience something greater than the sum of its parts.”

This fall, the choir is preparing for a series of concerts, including a performance at The Grotto Festival of Lights.

As far as auditioning for the symphonic choir, Lambert does his best to ensure a painless process.

“I try to make auditions as short and sweet as possible,” Lambert said, “We’ll find your vocal range and I’ll try to learn how your brain, ears, and voice are all communicating with each other. No prepared song required!”

Instrumental jazz combo and large ensemble jazz offering taught by Dan Davey

Stepping into Dan Davey’s instrumental jazz combo class is like entering a lively jazz club, filled with the rhythmic energy and improvisational spirit that define this beloved genre. As an instructor with years of teaching behind him and a passion for jazz, Dan Davey has been teaching this art form since 2004. In this class, students learn the basics of jazz improvisation within the context of small ensemble performances. From learning the nuances of standard jazz repertoire to developing the tools to arrange tunes, participants are immersed in a learning experience that hones their musicality and fosters their creativity. They also gain insights into rehearsal management, preparing them for the challenge of performing without the direct guidance of an instructor. “Much of the work available to musicians deals with trios, quartets, and quintets,” Dan Davey said, “This class prepares students to navigate these situations successfully.” Students in the instrumental jazz combo class will perform at Spinellas in Gresham, Oregon at the end of the term.

Dan Davey’s large jazz ensemble is open to anyone who has high school-level playing experience or above with their instrument and people who are interested may need to audition to take the class. Students will learn the style of jazz played during a large ensemble performance. This ensemble follows standard big band instrumentation including saxophone, trumpet, trombone, guitar, piano, bass, and drum set. Students in this class will be able to perform in at least one public concert.

Whether your desire is to reconnect with music or explore new musical horizons, MHCC’s music classes offer the perfect stage for your journey. Explore the power of music, make friends, and join a group of people who share your love for the art form.

Check out all of MHCC’s community education classes online at https://learn.mhcc.edu/modules/.