GCC’s Music Department is ready to enthrall audiences this Fall with plenty of concerts, courses, and other developments. Professor Byron Delto, Chair of the Music Department, Professor Jayson Helgeson, one of the music department’s instructors, and Professor Tobin Sparfeld shared their insights on what to expect this semester.

“We have a lot of concerts this semester and every semester. They are listed at Glendale.edu/music. Concerts start in October and run for the remainder of the semester,” said Delto.

“We are proud of the large number of music scholarships we award every year,” shared Delto “We are proud of our alumni who transfer every year to fantastic music programs both locally and nationally.” The department offers students access to industry-standard recording and production software. The department also provides Steinway pianos, and guitars are provided for students in classes in partnership with Fender Musical Instruments.

“Few people know this, but we are one of the only colleges in the state that offer Pro Tools certification,” says Helgeson. Students gain valuable opportunities in music production, live sound, and various aspects of the music industry. Former students like Dorothy Papapostolou have gone on to manage two major recording studios in Los Angeles simultaneously. 

GCC is also founding Youth Jazz and Youth Choral programs in collaboration with local high schools, alongside an existing Youth Symphony program. “We already have an established Youth Symphony program we work with as well,” Delto shared, emphasizing the commitment to nurturing musicians.

Professor Sparfeld also mentions how proud he is of his students, “Recent students have pursued degrees such as USC, UCLA, University of North Texas, and CSUN. Our faculty are also tremendous, including instrumentalists from bands such as Big Bad Voodoo Daddy.”

The program caters to various learning preferences by offering a mix of in-person, hybrid, and online courses. Approximately two-thirds of classes take place on campus, with the remaining one-third offered online.

The Music Department at GCC invites students and the community to embrace a world of creativity and expression this Fall. Visit the department’s webpage for more information and embark on a harmonious journey.

Ethan Oliver Consignado can be reached at [email protected].