Corky Siegel Workshop: From a Song to a Masterpiece in One Session

Chicago music legend, composer, blues piano and harmonica virtuoso Corky Siegel is bringing his transformative masterclass, "From A Song To A Masterpiece In One Session," to the Friendly Music School on Saturday, October 17th at 2pm-4pm. Limited to FIVE participants (plus up to two guest observers per participant) in the Friendly Community Room at $100 per participant.

Based on concepts distilled in his highly praised book, Let Your Music Soar: The Emotional Connection, Siegel’s high-touch, participatory workshop promises to fundamentally change how musicians approach their craft. Drawing on more than five decades of international touring and teaching, Siegel guides participants through the surprisingly under-appreciated power of dynamic variation—the physical dance of motion, touch, and pressure that unlocks profound musical expression.

"Dynamic variation is the most critical and profound performance tool imaginable," says Siegel. "Just understanding its true power will win you auditions and competitions. It’s a secret, but it should NOT be a secret."

Rather than offering abstract advice to simply "play from the heart" or "get in the zone," Siegel provides practical, hands-on instruction. Through a proprietary "one-minute exercise," participants learn to master a physical dynamic range from a delicate pianissimo (ppp) to a forceful fortissimo (FF). Observers and participants consistently report an immediate enhancement in rhythm, tone, spontaneity, and audience connection within just minutes of applying the technique.

“This has been the most powerful musicianship tool I've ever found.” MARK GRAY, Performer, Music Educator

“It is that profound of a tool.” DAVID ROCHE, PhD, Arts Education CPS

“It’s is a life changer!” SUE DEMEL, Sons of the Never Wrong

“Now ... I get outstanding audience response in every song and solo; and that’s the best turn on there is! “ GARY GAND, Gand Music & Sound

"I know you’ve seen the impact this has on people—you can add me to the list. The way I play seems to have fundamentally changed and improved overnight. I can't actually believe it, but I think it is true." —MICHAEL MILES, Music Education Director (Retired), Old Town School of Folk Music

This workshop is open to a wide range of Singers, Songwriters, and Instrumentalists

• Professionals, avid amateurs, and teachers from age 14 up

• Minors should be accompanied by parent or teacher

• Beginners MUST be able to play at least 4 songs EFFORTLESSLY

• Professional level only for the recorder and accordion

• Friends, relatives, and associates are welcome to observe at no cost (2 guests per participant)