Stepping into the Carbondale Civic Center on Tuesday night, the first thing you hear is the warm, vibrant music of local musicians filling the space. The city launched a new initiative on Dec. 9 that brings live music to the public before each City Council meeting. The series, called Civic Sessions, aims to highlight the city’s diverse music scene while encouraging greater community engagement.
The inaugural performance featured SIU School of Music Professor William Cernota, playing the cello, and student Vincent Jones, who played the contrabass. For both musicians, the Civic Center offered a great musical environment, they said.
“The acoustics are wonderful for string instruments,” Cernota said. “It was the first time for us, but we really enjoyed it, and the people seemed to appreciate it.”
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Jones echoed the sentiment, noting the intimacy of the setup.
“I really liked how the audience was positioned… it felt very nice and connected to play for people,” Jones said.
The Civic Sessions were introduced by Council Member Dawn Roberts on July 8. and approved by the full council. City staff member Eva Fisher, who now coordinates the series, said the idea is meant to create a welcoming atmosphere and reflect the city’s artistic vibrancy.
“This is a new initiative of having a free concert series before each City Council meeting,” Fisher said. “It’s a chance to highlight what a rich, diverse music scene we have here in Carbondale.”
Cernota said he hopes to involve more musicians from SIU, noting that the 30-minute format makes participation accessible.
“People should be willing to portray what they can do on a regular basis,” Cernota said. “I want to promote it with the School of Music at SIU and get other people involved.”
Fisher said performers have already shown enthusiasm for the new project.
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“I’m just so grateful… we have a really collaborative, cooperative music scene here in Carbondale,” Fisher said.
With plans to feature students, faculty and community musicians, Fisher said she hopes Civic Sessions will become a long-term addition to city meetings, blending arts and civic life in a way that reflects Carbondale’s creative identity.
Staff reporter Yahri Edmond can be reached at [email protected]
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