To celebrate the 90^th anniversary of the Western Springs Music Club, eight of its most accomplished musicians and several guests performed Sunday at the First Congregational Church of 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.  Little did they imagine that for nearly a century to follow, hundreds of members would share their dream of promoting the development of music in the community.

Reports of the decline in the popularity of classical music appear regularly but the Western Springs Music Club continues to thrive with an active membership of
nearly eighty. One secret to the club’s success is the nature of its membership nearly half of whom are performers. Margaret Hilgendorf, an active performing member since 1962, writes “The best aspect of the group for me is the joy of hearing a friend perform and share their talent with me and others…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. Dispensing with the protocols of concert-going, programs are often held at members’ homes, ending with time to socialize.

Sunday’s free concert paid tribute and expressed gratitude to the founders.   “The concert today was outstanding,” club member Nancy Sutherland commented, “and the program was aptly named – “A Musical Sampler.” Former president and concert coordinator, Kathryn Price, said, “This title not only reflects a by-gone skill but provides just a glimpse of the talent present among the members of the club.” 

The program showcased dynamic performances on clarinet, cello, violin, organ and piano along with a vocal duo, and a lovely aria. The “Sampler” featured Dupre, Stauss, Mendelssohn, Beethoven, Grieg, Donizetti, Bocheros, Jimenez and Bartok. 

For nine decades, the Western Springs Music Club has shared its experience of classical music with the community. Today’s program -- which coincides with the
125^th Anniversary of Western Springs –was filled with everything we have come to expect --- a fresh and stimulating afternoon filled with beautiful music and wonderful friendship.