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In 1874, a group of history enthusiasts met in the state’s wooden Capitol to found a new statewide historical organization, the Michigan Pioneer Society. Over the next several decades they developed the state’s first history museum and published the forty-volume Michigan Pioneer and Historical Collection anthology. Discover the work of the Pioneer Society with us as we learn about their original mission, their commitment to preserving Michigan stories, and their enduring, modern legacies, including the Michigan History Museum, and the Historical Society of Michigan. Special attention will be paid to the contributions of Pioneer Society members from west Michigan.
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Instructor: Valerie Marvin
Capacity Remaining: 22
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Dates: 10/1/2026 - 10/1/2026
Times: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
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Sessions: 1
Days: Th
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Building: College of Health and Human Services
Room: 1035
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Member Rate: $10, Non-Member Rate: $20
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Mini Medical School offers an engaging introduction to the world of medicine through the lens of the WMU Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine. Designed for community members interested in health and wellness, this four-week program explores the scientific foundations of health and disease in an accessible, interactive format. Participants will learn how medical students are trained, explore current topics in medicine, and better understand the connection between science and clinical care. Sessions are led by a medical librarian, a science educator, a clinician, and medical students who present complex topics in clear, everyday language. Each session features lively lectures and interactive discussions designed to spark curiosity, encourage questions, and challenge participants to think more deeply about health and medicine. No prior study of the sciences or a medical background is required to enjoy this course. Participants should expect a thoughtfully engaging experience that introduces new concepts and perspectives. Whether you're curious about the human body or simply love to learn, Mini Medical School makes exploring medicine both fun and rewarding. Participants who attend all sessions will receive a Mini Medical School certificate of attendance
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Instructor: Elizabeth Lorbeer, Shadi Adineh
Capacity Remaining: 27
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Dates: 10/2/2026 - 10/23/2026
Times: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
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Sessions: 4
Days: F
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Building: WMU Homer Stryker MD UpJohn
Room: TBL Hall 1. 300 Portage St, Kalamazoo MI 49007
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Member Rate: $40, Non-Member Rate: $80
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This session is for those who identify as or wish to know more about solo-agers. A solo-ager is an older adult who is aging without a partner, adult children, close friends/neighbors, etc. for significant support for critical decisions like healthcare, finances, transportation, estate planning, end-of-life decisions, pet care, etc. In this course, we will share strategic planning options and community resources available for solo-agers as well as support each other through the solo-aging journey.
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Instructor: John Hulsebus
Capacity Remaining: 11
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Dates: 10/12/2026 - 10/12/2026
Times: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
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Sessions: 1
Days: M
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Building: Heritage Community of Kalamazoo
Room: Small Group Learning Room
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Member Rate: $10, Non-Member Rate: $20
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Navigating Medicare can feel overwhelming – but it doesn’t have to. The choices you make when you first enroll in Medicare can shape your costs and coverage for years to come, which is why understanding your options is so important. This workshop is designed to give you clarity, confidence, and answers to questions you may not even know to ask. During our time together, you’ll learn about: • The parts and plans of Medicare • Key enrollment deadlines and rules to help you avoid costly mistakes • The differences between Medicare Advantage and Original Medicare with a supplement, including: o How each option works o What they cover o Whether you can switch between them o How prescription drug coverage fits into the picture My goal is simple: to empower you with clear, unbiased information so you can make Medicare decisions that feel comfortable, confident, and right for your needs.
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Instructor: Maria Wogomon
Capacity Remaining: 37
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Dates: 10/5/2026 - 10/5/2026
Times: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
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Sessions: 1
Days: M
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Building: Sangren Hall
Room: 2510
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Member Rate: $10, Non-Member Rate: $20
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Golden Information for the Golden Years: Get to know the Institute of Public Scholarship (IPS) – Come and learn how IPS elevates historically excluded voices by cultivating environments where all can create narratives for justice and liberation. With programs promoting cultural expression, gathering and translating stories, and measuring and documenting health, IPS develops programs blending the humanities, arts, sciences, and environmental stewardship to empower all learners to reclaim agency over their stories, health, and futures. This class will examine the variety of experiences offered and give examples of how lives have been changed.
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Instructor: K. Lynn McFarlen
Capacity Remaining: 17
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Dates: 10/6/2026 - 10/6/2026
Times: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
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Sessions: 1
Days: Tu
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Building: Milestone Senior Services
Room: 918 Jasper St, Kalamazoo MI 49001
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Free to Members
You must sign-in for the add-to-cart button to appear
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Stories shape how we understand identity, belonging, and the spaces in between. In this Amherst-style, discussion-based course, we will explore how writers craft compelling narratives rooted in cultural experience, migration, and memory. Drawing from contemporary authors such as Jhumpa Lahiri, Yaa Gyasi, and Brit Bennett, we will examine how personal and collective histories inform voice, character, and story structure. Participants will be guided through reflective writing exercises designed to unlock their own stories—whether drawn from travel, family history, or lived experience. No prior writing experience is required. This course is ideal for anyone interested in storytelling, memoir, or simply engaging more deeply with literature in a supportive, interactive environment.
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Instructor: Anoop Judge
Capacity Remaining: 15
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Dates: 10/6/2026 - 11/10/2026
Times: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
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Sessions: 6
Days: Tu
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Building: Online
Room:
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Member Rate: $60, Non-Member Rate: $120
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Mendelssohn's Symphony No. 4 "Italian" is a joyous, energetic work inspired by his travels. He gives us a sunny first movement, a solemn second movement that resembles a Roman procession, a graceful minuet, and a fiery finale based on the Italian saltarello dance. This delightful work will be performed by the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra on Saturday, October 17. Our classes will explore this symphony with listening maps, excerpts, and insights so that by concert time we will be thoroughly familiar with this wonderful composition. In addition to two class sessions, we are invited to observe a KSO rehearsal; this optional experience will allow us to see the musicians prepare this piece. Attendance at the KSO’s performance on Saturday, October 17 is strongly encouraged for the full experience. Concert tickets are sold separately; call (269) 387-2300 or purchase online at www.KalamazooSymphony.com
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Instructor: Jane Rooks Ross
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Dates: 10/6/2026 - 10/13/2026
Times: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
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Sessions: 2
Days: Tu
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Building: College of Health and Human Services
Room: 1035
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Member Rate: $20, Non-Member Rate: $40
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This class is full. Please use the button below to be added to the waitlist.
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Borgess Hospital was founded in Kalamazoo in 1889 by Sisters of St. Joseph, at the request of Monsignor O'Brien, pastor of St. Augustine Parish. This course will present the history of the hospital as it grew from a 20 bed renovated mansion at 314 Portage Street to its location on Gull Road, becoming part of Ascention Health in 1999, and just recently, in 2025, becoming part of Beacon Health. The story of the nuns who opened and operated the hospital for over 100 years will also be presented. It's a rich piece of Kalamazoo history. The course will include in-person presentations with numerous slides to show the evolution of the hospital and the amazing people who made it happen. No purchased materials are required
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Instructor: Sue McCrery
Capacity Remaining: 37
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Dates: 10/6/2026 - 10/20/2026
Times: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
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Sessions: 3
Days: Tu
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Building: Lawrence Education Center at Beacon Kalamazoo
Room: 1521 Gull Road, Kalamazoo MI 49048
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Member Rate: $30, Non-Member Rate: $60
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The stories behind the hit songs of the 1960’s > This class will explore the background of over a dozen hit songs from the 1960s -how they came to be written and recorded, how the song and and artist were brought together, whether success came slowly or quickly, some of the quirks in production, etc. There will also be a number of musical quizzes, where the class will be asked to identify a song based on on the playing of a short snippet from that song In total, parts of over 40 songs will be played. If you’re a fan of 1960s popular music, this class is for you! Note: a similar class was presented a few years ago, but this class presents an entirely different set of songs.
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Instructor: Randall Schau
Capacity Remaining: 41
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Dates: 10/12/2026 - 10/12/2026
Times: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
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Sessions: 1
Days: M
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Building: Richmond Visual Arts Center
Room: Room 2008
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Member Rate: $10, Non-Member Rate: $20
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What’s the secret to living a fulfilling life? We live in an imperfect world and we are all imperfect creatures. So, in the midst of distractions and everyday challenges, how can we live as authentically as possible? In this course, you’ll be introduced to various individuals who, despite their flaws, figured out their own unique path to wellbeing. Ranging from inspirational to outrageous, we’ll learn through artwork and the instructor’s research how these fascinating people who, despite their flaws and struggles, managed to live full, rich lives. By learning their stories and unlocking their secrets, we’ll discover more about our own selves and how we can live an even more creative, generous, and courageous life—even in the face of difficulties.
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Instructor: Jennifer Clark
Capacity Remaining: 4
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Dates: 10/14/2026 - 10/14/2026
Times: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
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Sessions: 1
Days: W
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Building: Heritage Community of Kalamazoo
Room: Memory Care Auditorium
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Member Rate: $10, Non-Member Rate: $20
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This course will present an overview of the North Country National Scenic Trail. This National treasure covers 8 states and goes right through Kalamazoo County. Where is this 4900 mile Trail? How do we find it? Do we need a permit? Is it only for backpacking? What makes this Trail unique? We will discuss navigation, mapping, finding parking, planning hikes and how to connect with local trail resources, including others who enjoy hiking and maintain the trail. There will be 2 Classroom sessions discussing the basics of hiking, advancing into mapping and planning hikes. The 3rd session will be a hike on the North Country Trail starting at the Kellogg Experimental Forest Public Parking Lot. There will be an optional meetup at a local restaurant for post hike Celebration.
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Instructor: Jane Norton
Capacity Remaining: 12
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Dates: 10/15/2026 - 10/29/2026
Times: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
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Sessions: 3
Days: Th
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Building: Heritage Community of Kalamazoo
Room: Memory Care Auditorium
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Member Rate: $30, Non-Member Rate: $60
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This series invites participants to release control and collaborate with water as a creative partner. Instead of “painting it right,” students explore mood, memory, and meaning through color, movement, and intuition. Each session builds confidence while honoring personal expression—no prior art experience required. The emphasis is on: Process over product Curiosity over correctness Expression over perfection Each 1.5 hour session blends gentle warmups, guided prompts, hands-on painting, reflection, and optional sharing. Takeaway: “There is no wrong mark—only information.” Materials will be provided: including paper, watercolor and brushes and supplemental supplies.
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Instructor: Cathy Igea Colella
Capacity Remaining: 9
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Dates: 10/15/2026 - 10/29/2026
Times: 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
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Sessions: 3
Days: Th
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Building: Portage Zhang Senior Center
Room: Meeting Room 1B
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Member Rate: $30, Non-Member Rate: $60
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What was once an isolated fad beloved by quiet individuals, anime is now a global phenomenon. This course will serve as a thematic introduction to the art form of anime, how anime culture has grown within the United States, and how it is broadly viewed by millennials and Gen Zers. While this course is not meant to answer every question one may have, it presents the themes that have captivated multiple generations within the West, and you’ll walk away with a better understanding of why millions worldwide fell in love with the whimsical and wonderful world of anime.
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Instructor: Wayne Bond
Capacity Remaining: 15
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Dates: 10/15/2026 - 10/15/2026
Times: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
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Sessions: 1
Days: Th
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Building: College of Health and Human Services
Room: 1035
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Member Rate: $10, Non-Member Rate: $20
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Join us for a 2-part educational series about the different justice systems in Michigan. Beginning with our first session in the Fall, OLLI, SBM Judicial Section, and MCCE, welcomes you to learn more about our State and Federal Judicial systems.
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Instructor: SBM Judicial
Capacity Remaining: 19
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Dates: 10/21/2026 - 10/21/2026
Times: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
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Sessions: 1
Days: W
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Building: Online
Room:
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Member Rate: $10, Non-Member Rate: $20
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For approximately 3.8 billion years life has been evolving on Earth. During this time big and small changes have occurred. We now have an explanation for the behavior of this process. It is called Self-Organized Criticality, and it is different from what we have assumed. This process also happens in human culture and institutions. We will discuss this process and discover lessons that we can use to make the future better for all.
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Instructor: Robin Skitt
Capacity Remaining: 27
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Dates: 10/21/2026 - 10/28/2026
Times: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
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Sessions: 2
Days: W
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Building: College of Health and Human Services
Room: 2089
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Member Rate: $20, Non-Member Rate: $40
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Golden Information for the Golden Years: Get to know the Kalamazoo Climate Crisis Coalition (KCCC) - The Kalamazoo Climate Crisis Coalition mobilizes collective action to achieve immediate and drastic reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and rapid adoption of renewable energy through a transition grounded in social, racial, economic, and environmental justice. If you want to learn more about what you can do for the ongoing climate crisis, this is the place! Executive director, Jenny Doezema, will highlight KCCC programs working to create a better climate now, and for generations to come.
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Instructor: K. Lynn McFarlen
Capacity Remaining: 24
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Dates: 10/27/2026 - 10/27/2026
Times: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
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Sessions: 1
Days: Tu
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Building: Milestone Senior Services
Room: 918 Jasper St, Kalamazoo MI 49001
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Free to Members
You must sign-in for the add-to-cart button to appear
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Have you ever wondered why you love musicals so much? Farmers Alley Theatre is bringing back - by popular demand - one of Kalamazoo's favorites as their second show of the 2026-27 season. Come From Away by Irene Sankoff and David Hein is the “remarkable true story of 7,000 stranded passengers and the small town in Newfoundland that welcomed them” (https://comefromaway.com). In this class, we’ll dive into the musical theatre genre to understand why musicals – especially this one - are so powerful. You’ll be among the first to see glimpses of the inner workings of a local professional theatre as a musical production is created. This is a course in three sessions: In the first session, we’ll learn about integration of creative elements that make the world of a musical and the specific design elements of Farmers Alley’s production. Then, on your own, you’ll purchase a ticket and attend the play anytime between Nov 5 - 15. In the third session, we’ll re-live our favorite moments and have a talkback with the creative artists who are bringing the production to life.
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Instructor: Shannon Huneryager
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Dates: 10/27/2026 - 11/17/2026
Times: 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM
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Sessions: 2
Days: Tu
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Building: Farmers Alley Theatre
Room: 221 Farmers Alley, Kalamazoo MI
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Member Rate: $20, Non-Member Rate: $40
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This class is full. Please use the button below to be added to the waitlist.
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This is your backstage pass to the world of chamber music! Between two fun and focused sessions, we're going to pull back the curtain on how a small ensemble actually works—not just on stage, but behind the scenes. Whether you're a musician, a student, or just love music, you'll get an up-close look at the tough choices, deep connections, and collaboration secrets that turn a group of individuals into a tight-knit musical machine. Forget the formal concert setting; we're diving into the real mechanics of professional chamber performance! We will explore the inner workings of chamber music ensembles. Through two classroom sessions, students will examine how ensembles select repertoire, the process of leading without a conductor ("who's the boss?"), and the rehearsal process of a specific musical movement. This course is designed to leave you with not only an understanding of chamber music literature but a profound appreciation for the dedication, collaboration, and artistry required to bring it to life.
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Instructor: Bradley Wong, Tina Gorter
Capacity Remaining: 19
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Dates: 10/27/2026 - 10/30/2026
Times: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
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Sessions: 2
Days: Tu F
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Building: Ladies Library Association of Kalamazoo
Room: Auditorium
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Member Rate: $20, Non-Member Rate: $40
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For more than 150 years, Michigan women have proudly preserved state and local history in libraries, museums, community centers, clubs, and public buildings. They’ve suffered horrific defeats—like the loss of old Grand Rapids City Hall—and won magnificent victories, including the preservation of Michigan’s Capitol. Join Valerie Marvin to learn about their work, legacies, and the tools they’ve left behind for us!
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Instructor: Valerie Marvin
Capacity Remaining: 41
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Dates: 10/29/2026 - 10/29/2026
Times: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
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Sessions: 1
Days: Th
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Building: Heritage Community of Kalamazoo
Room: Memory Care Auditorium
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Member Rate: $10, Non-Member Rate: $20
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