Ryan Cox, Director, First Conservatory.  

And in the Beginning. . . a Vision

Once upon a time there was a large church building with many rooms. On Sunday mornings, the classrooms were filled with children learning church school lessons, and the building was happy. But the rest of the week, the rooms were dark and empty, and the building was sad. Then a man named Dan had a plan. “Let’s fill the rooms with music students,” he said. And teachers were hired, and students came carrying instrument cases of all sizes, filling the rooms every evening and weekend. And the church building was happy.

A Brief History

First Conservatory opened its doors 11 years ago with 16 students. Its first faculty member was Jirina Serwas, a piano teacher who still gives lessons at First Conservatory. Directors have included Christie Vohs, Mary Anne Wolff Gardner, and First Conservatory’s current director, Ryan Cox. Student enrollment has grown from the first 16 students to almost 300, with First Conservatory presently averaging approximately 1,200 lessons per month!

The Teachers

First Conservatory has 22 teachers on staff, providing lessons in 15 different instruments plus voice and Kindermusik. Just about every orchestral instrument is covered except French horn and bassoon (for lack of requests) and percussion (for lack of facilities). More than half the teachers live in Chicago, and others come from as far away as Skokie. All have degrees in music—most have a master’s degree, and several hold doctoral degrees—and all are active professional musicians. Many faculty have enriched the worship services at First Congregational Church with their talents.

The Students

The 300 students at First Conservatory are a diverse group, ranging in age from 18 months to into their 70s and coming from eight or more surrounding communities. Local school districts refer music students to First Conservatory, and word has spread about the excellent reputation of the conservatory, bringing in many new students. Currently, 15 students are receiving need-based scholarships to attend First Conservatory (eligibility requires a recommendation from a school music teacher and social worker). This program is generously supported by the Erion Fund and private donations.

The Program

Most students attend First Conservatory weekly, for one half-hour lesson, the fee for which is $22. Each teacher holds at least one student recital per year, and in addition, an honors recital is held the evening of the La Grange Christmas Walk (December 3 this year), and another honors recital is held in the spring. In total, First Congregational hosts about 30 conservatory recitals per year.

In addition to lessons and recitals, First Conservatory runs a Fine Arts Academy each June. This week-long academy gives students a chance to explore music experimentally, participating in small ensembles and enrichment classes such as composition, handbell ringing, and cookie baking.

Giving Back

Both the church and the students benefit from the presence of First Conservatory. The faculty and students enrich First Congregational’s worship services with their talents. First Conservatory makes a monthly pledge to the church as rent payment. And once-empty rooms now are filled with music.

Students of all levels and of all ages are welcome. Lessons may begin at anytime. Private lesson fee: $22.00 per half-hour lesson. For more information contact Ryan Cox or at 708-352-8843.