Discover the artistry of musical voices—Join Lake Forest College professor Dr. Dan Schwartz for this exciting new community engagement series
Beyond the Melody: How and Why Unique Instruments Produce Unique Sounds
October 19 – November 9, 2026
Mondays, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Held at the newly renovated Glen Rowan House, "Beyond the Melody" is an engaging lecture and live performance series that invites audiences to discover the remarkable artistry and individuality of four distinct musical voices: the cello, flute, oboe, and a blues band. Each week spotlights a different featured instrument or ensemble, exploring its history, evolution, and role across musical traditions while revealing the fascinating ways it creates sound. The opening and closing sessions will include a social reception featuring food and refreshments prior to class.
Both the educational content and social receptions will offer opportunities to build community, engage with College leadership, and learn more about ongoing campus initiatives.
Community
- Lifelong Learning
- Writing by the Lake
- Lectures at Lake Forest Place
- Office of Community Education
- Forester Elevate Program for Local Businesses
- VITA Tax Program
- Meeting and Event Facilities
- Upcoming Public Events
- MLS Courses Offered in 2026-2027
- Gym Membership
- Forester Athletics
- Hire a Forester
- Donate
- Campus Map
Reserve your spot
Registration fee: $250 for the four-week series
Registration deadline: Monday, October 12
Participants are encouraged to attend all sessions, but full attendance is not required.
Series details at a glance
When
Four-week series held on Monday evenings from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Dates: October 19, October 26, November 2, November 9
Where
Glen Rowan House at Lake Forest College
500 N. Sheridan Rd, Lake Forest, IL 60045
Who should attend
Open to all community members and alumni. No musical experience required.
Cost
$250 for the four-week series. Participants are encouraged to attend all sessions, but full attendance is not required.
Learn more about the series
Beyond the Melody: How and Why Unique Instruments Produce Unique Sounds" is an engaging multi-week lecture-recital series that invites audiences to discover the remarkable artistry and individuality of four distinctive musical voices: the cello, flute, oboe, and a blues band. Each week spotlights a different featured instrument or ensemble, exploring its history, evolution, and role across musical traditions while revealing the fascinating ways it creates sound. Through live performance, demonstrations, and conversation, audiences will experience the specialized techniques, expressive capabilities, and unique sonic characteristics that make each instrument unlike any other. Every session features a new recital program designed to highlight the instrument’s distinctive repertoire and musical personality, offering listeners a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship, creativity, and innovation behind the sounds they hear.
Instructor
Dr. Dan Schwartz, Lecturer, Lake Forest College’s Department of Music & Principal Oboe of the Illinois Symphony.
What you'll learn
- The unique artistry and individuality of four distinctive musical voices
- Each instrument’s history, evolution, and role across musical traditions
- Live performances and demonstrations of each instrument’s specialized techniques
- Distinction between each instrument’s unique characteristics and expressive capabilities
- A deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship, creativity, and innovation behind the sounds