To celebrate the 95th anniversary of the Western Springs Music Club, a number of performing members and guest accompanists performed Sunday at the First Congregational Church in Western Springs. The Club’s first president, Mrs. William (Grace) Hilton, would have been proud of today’s group that she and eleven music-minded women from Western Springs and LaGrange founded as the “Musical Club” in 1921. Hardly could they have imagined that for nearly a century to follow hundreds of members would share their dream of promoting the development of music in our community.
The Western Springs Music Club continues to thrive with an active membership of 90+ members. One secret to the club’s success is the nature of its membership -- nearly a third are performers. Margaret Hilgendorf, an active performing member since 1962, writes “The best aspect of the group for me is the joy of hearing friends perform and share their talent with us…the joy of preparing and presenting great live music for an audience of very appreciative members is wonderful.” Creating a relaxing atmosphere conducive to listening also draws new classical music devotees. Programs once held at members’ homes are now held in larger venues, such as churches in the area, but still end with time to socialize with tea and cookies.
Club member Bonnie Shaner commented “It was truly an honor to be part of this outstanding concert, aptly named “The Gift of Music.” Former president and concert coordinator, Kathryn Price, said, “This title was chosen for this free concert because it is our gift to the community and illustrates the amazing talent of our musicians.”
The program showcased many of the Club’s performing members and guest musicians: Jason Deroche – guitar; Margaret Hilgendorf – piano; Karin Ursin – flute with guest pianist Beatriz Helguera-Snow; Steven Sigurdson – cello; Victor Sotelo – cello with guest pianist Yuriy Geyer; Jennifer Petkus – clarinet with guest Matthew Hogan – piano and bassoon; James Winfield – organ; Michael Surratt – organ; and The WSMC Chorale – Melissa Raub – director; Selmin Cicek, Erin Cleary, Jane Meadowcroft, Barbara Miner, Bonnie Shaner, Karen Smith, and Kathi Best (pianist).
“The Gift of Music” featured compositions by J.S. Bach, Johannes Brahms, Francis Poulenc, Olivier Messiaen, Augustin Barrios, Antonio Lauro, John Gardner, Olivier Metra, Louis Cahuzac and Michael Kibbe.
For more than nine decades, the Western Springs Music Club has shared its gift of classical music with the community. “Today’s program was filled with everything we have come to expect - a fresh and stimulating afternoon filled with beautiful music and wonderful friendship,” commented Sharon Bachmann.
