Bloomingdale School of Music
A trusted name in music education
February 2026
Illinois Music Association Annual Competition Registration is Now Open!
The Illinois Music Association will be hosting their Annual State Olympic Competition on May 30 & May 31 at Wheaton College. All students are invited to participate. You must sign up at the front desk by March 14 to compete. The IMA Contest is a great opportunity for students to set a goal to work towards. For more information, please talk to your teacher or stop by the front desk.
We will be hosting our Spring Recital on May 16 at the Bloomingdale Public Library. Students competing in the IMA Contest are highly encouraged to participate in the Spring Recital to get a chance to perform their piece in front of an audience. The Spring Recital is open to all students whether they are participating in the IMA Contest or not.
For more information about the Illinois Music Assocaition and the annual contest check out their site here: https://illinoismusicassociation.org/
Winter Weather's Affect on Instruments
Playing music in cold weather isn’t just uncomfortable for musicians, it can be tough on instruments too. Cold temperatures, wind, and moisture can affect both sound quality and the physical condition of your instrument, especially during outdoor performances or rehearsals in unheated spaces.
Why cold weather matters:Low temperatures cause instrument materials to expand and contract. Wooden instruments like violins, guitars, and woodwinds are especially vulnerable and may crack or warp over time. Brass instruments are more resilient, but repeated exposure can still affect tuning and response.
Sound changes in the cold:Cold air can make instruments feel sluggish and harder to tune. Strings may feel tighter, notes may respond more slowly, and larger instruments often show the most noticeable changes.
Moisture risks:Cold conditions often lead to excess moisture inside instruments, which can cause pitch issues and increase the risk of mold—particularly in reed instruments like clarinets and saxophones.
How to protect your instrument:• Store your instrument in a temperature-controlled space whenever possible• Use a quality case and consider a case humidifier• Avoid garages, attics, and direct heat sources• Wipe down and dry your instrument after every use
A little extra care during colder months goes a long way. Protecting your instrument helps maintain its sound, appearance, and longevity—so you can focus on making music, no matter the weather.
Receive $20 off your next month of lessons for every friend you refer to take ongoing private lessons.
Monthly Special
Get six 30-minute guitar lessons for $200 when you register by February 28, 2026.
Offer expires: 2/28/2026Offer cannot be combined with any other offers.Limit one per customer
Offer expires: 2/28/2026Offer cannot be combined with any other offers.Limit one per customer
IMPORTANT DATES
March 14, 2026
IMA Registration Deadline
Register at the front desk.May 16, 2026
Spring Recital
3:00 PM Location: Bloomingdale Public Library 101 Fairfield Way Bloomingdale, IL 60108May 30 & 31, 2026
Illinois Music Association Competition
Location: Wheaton College 500 College Ave. Wheaton, IL 60187October 17, 2026
Halloween Recital
Location: Bloomingdale School of Music