06/01/2026
Greetings friends,
You are invited to perform on one of the most celebrated stages in the United States. VanderCook College of Music invites you to participate in the inaugural VCM Concert Invitational at Symphony Center, home of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.
What’s Included
- 30-minute performance slot (maximum 20 minutes of music)
- Professional stereo recording delivered within one week — suitable for SuperState and other festival applications
- Clinic at your school before or after your performance led by Alex Kaminsky, Scott Casagrande, Daniel Farris, or Stacey Dolan
- Recorded commentary provided during your performance by Alex Kaminsky, Scott Casagrande, Daniel Farris, and/or Stacey Dolan
- As many complimentary tickets as you would like to offset participation costs — sell them or give them away
- Bands are encouraged to stay and listen to at least two other performances
Event Details
- Who: High School and Middle School bands — limited to 14 ensembles, first come, first-served
- Fee: $1,800 per ensemble (refundable if the event is canceled due to inclement weather)
- Deposit: A $500 non-refundable deposit secures your spot on a first-come, first-served basis through August 1, 2026. Limited to 14 ensembles — checks and purchase orders should be sent as soon as possible after registration. Deposit checks must be in hand by August 1, 2026 to finalize your registration with final balance due on November 1, 2026.
- Registration: You are encouraged to register asap if you cannot send the deposit at this time.
Why This Event?
Symphony Center is not just a venue, it is an experience you and your students will never forget. The professional recording alone is an invaluable asset for festival applications and program visibility.
Spots are limited and filling fast. REGISTER TODAY to secure your ensemble’s performance on this historic stage!
REGISTRATION LINK ➡️ https://hubs.la/Q04jB51c0
Checks/PO's should be made out to VanderCook College of Music and sent to:
VanderCook College of Music
Attn: VCM Concert Invitational
3140 S. Federal Street
Chicago, IL 60616
For inquiries, please email:
Scott Casagrande at [email protected] or
Alex Kaminsky at [email protected]
The participation fee covers actual event costs;
this is not a revenue-generating endeavor for VanderCook College of Music.
