CCC Music Department “Does Kansas Proud” in the Windy City 

“It was the experience of a lifetime,” said Jessica Briggs of Coffeyville, Kan., a freshman studying elementary education. 

“It was like nothing I have ever done before,” said Sherri Allen of Independence, Kan., a freshman studying music education. 

The Coffeyville Community College (CCC) music department hit the road on April 26 for a four day adventure in Chicago.  Members of the instrumental music and choral music departments traveled to the Windy City to not only perform, but sight see and learn in an environment outside of the classroom.

The 61 students and five sponsors took two chartered buses across the country.  Over the next two days the choir and band performed two times – at the Richard Daily Civic Center and at the Plaza at the Premium Malls. 

“The groups performed very well,” said Choral Music Instructor, Darla Strecker.  “There were two talent scouts at the Civic Center.  One of those scouts was originally from Kansas and he came up after the performance and told us we “did Kansas proud.” 

“Our ensembles performed to a high caliber and they represented southeast Kansas extremely well,” said Instrumental Music Instructor, Tremon Kizer.  “I would like to thank everyone who helped out financially, physically and emotionally.  There were several people involved and their support lets us know that music is alive and well at CCC and in southeast Kansas.” 

On Friday the students visited the Sears Tower, the third highest building in the world.  They shopped at the historic “Magnificent Mile” and attended the musical “Wicked.” 

“Most of the students had never been to a professional level show, so it was a real treat for them,” said Strecker. “’Wicked’ is the story of the wicked witch of the West and Glinda the good witch in the story of “The Wizard of Oz” – an appropriate choice, we thought.” 

Following their performance on Saturday, the students visited the Navy Pier, Lake Michigan and attended a performance (in the splash zone) of the Blue Man Group. 

“This was a great experience and I’m thankful for CCC giving me the opportunity to go to Chicago,” said graduating sophomore, Matt Whitley of Independence, Kan. 

“The bonds we created through this trip will last a lifetime and it was awesome,” said Julie Hessig of South Coffeyville, Okla., a freshman in the theatre department at CCC. 

“I am very proud of our students,” said Strecker. “They represented the college well – were incredibly well mannered and polite to everyone.  The bus drivers and tour guide were impressed with the maturity our students showed, as were we.”

The trip cost about $30,000 and the CCC Music Student raised most of that money through fundraisers and the support of their family, friends and the community of Coffeyville. 

“We would like to publicly thank every business, supporter and family member who donated money toward our trip.  It was an exceptional trip for all of us and a huge learning experience for the students,” said Strecker. “My favorite part of the trip is watching their eyes light up when they do something for the first time, such as first time in a big city – on an elevator with over 100 floors – seeing a professional show, etc.  I think some of them even surprised themselves with how adult and mature they can be.  This trip has helped them grow to be the adults they will be.  You hear all the time about lousy kids and what is this world coming to.  Well, I can tell you that some of the finest teenagers in the world go to school on the campus of Coffeyville Community College and I am honored to teach and know them.” 

For more information about the Raven Music Programs call 251-7700 ext. 2046, or join the CCC Music Facebook group today.