Mission
To provide students of varied backgrounds and musical abilities the opportunity to develop musicianship, leadership, and interpersonal skills while advancing to the next level of their musical journey. Students of all majors are welcome to participate in the Department of Music. You may either earn an associate’s degree as a music pathway student or join our ensembles and music club while you pursue another major. All HC students can also attend most HC performances for free.
Goals
Located at the Ybor City Campus, the primary goal of Hillsborough College’s Department of Music is to teach students the necessary skills for advancement to the next level of musical education, which is typically enrollment into a university Bachelor of Music program upon transfer.
The secondary goal of our department is to enrich our community with cultural experiences, such as student recitals, ensemble concerts, and guest artist performances. Additionally, our ensembles and faculty members are available for outreach performances and masterclasses.
Objectives
Hillsborough College offers a course of study in music that roughly parallels the first two years of music study traditionally encountered at a 4-year institution. Offerings include a four-semester sequence of music theory/aural skills, applied music lessons in all the traditional instruments and voice, and ensembles both large and small. Additionally, courses in piano proficiency are offered.
The music department employs a faculty of experienced educators and professional performing musicians. Students have the opportunity of gaining instruction from mentors who have not only gone through the academic process themselves, but who can pass on a wealth of professional performance skills and knowledge.
Students are afforded numerous performance opportunities through student recitals and ensemble concerts. Additional opportunities occur through college events outside the music department as well as community requests and invitations to perform for various causes and events.
Music Ensembles
Hillsborough College offers several ensembles that are open to all HC students. Located at the Ybor City campus, these courses are taught by talented instructors that will prepare you to perform on campus and around the community. No audition is required.
HC Fanfare Concert Winds
Fanfare Concert Winds is a 65+ piece concert band comprised of local amateur and professional musicians and music students. Offered as a concert band ensemble through the Hillsborough Community College Music Department curriculum, Fanfare Concert Winds contributes to the musical culture and community in Hillsborough County by providing quality music performance and educational experiences for the young and the young at heart. Contact Professor Ted Hope for more information (thope@hccfl.edu)
HC Chorus
The HC Concert Choir is a choral ensemble that develops musicianship and provides training in choral singing. This ensemble is open to all HC students and aims to present quality choral literature. There is a focus on vocal technique and developing singers to their fullest potential. Performances are on campus and in the community. Contact Professor Ruth Nelson for more information (rnelson33@hccfl.edu)
HC Vocal Ensemble
The HC Concert Choir is an auditioned vocal ensemble that focuses on repertoire from musical theater, operettas, and operas. There is a focus on vocal technique and developing singers to their fullest potential. Students perform on campus and in the community. Contact Professor Ruth Nelson for more information (rnelson33@hccfl.edu)
HC Jazz Band and Jazz Combo
The HC Jazz Band is dedicated to performing classic big band literature and spreading awareness of America’s indigenous art form. The ensemble frequently performs at the Ybor City campus and engages with the community via performances in the Tampa Bay area, such as the New Tampa Performing Arts Center. The HC Jazz Combo is a small group that emphasizes jazz improvisation and student arrangements. Contact Dr. Andrew Peal for more information (apeal@hccfl.edu)
Events
The Ybor City campus at Hillsborough College hosts many visual and performing arts events that feature our talented students and guest artists throughout the year. Visit our Events page for more information (“HC Music Performances,” “VAPA Guest Artist Series,” “Guitar Series” button)
Music Club
The HC Music Club serves as a supportive community for all musicians in the college. It offers many opportunities and resources throughout the year such as masterclasses and concerts to inspire and educate the HC community. Contact the Music Club Advisor, Dr. Andrew Peal, for more information (apeal@hccfl.edu)
Donate to HC Music
Hillsborough College is an accredited member of the National Association of Schools of Music
Chamber Ensembles
Ybor City String Project (Contact Kenneth Kwo: kkwo@hccfl.edu)
HC Classical Guitar Ensemble (Contact John Demas: jdemas@hccfl.edu)
HC Woodwind Ensemble (Contact Dr. Amanda Swaim: aswaim2@hccfl.edu)
HC Brass Ensemble (Contact Dr. Andrew Peal: apeal@hccfl.edu)
Hillsborough College is an accredited member of the National Association of Schools of Music