December 8, 2025
Cavaliers take to the stage!
Did you know that 88% of JCCC students would choose JCCC again? With state-of-the-art facilities, forward-thinking faculty, and hands-on experiences—it’s easy to see why!
In JCCC’s Music and Recording Arts courses, these interactive experiences take center stage. In addition to a comprehensive curriculum, Cavaliers can perform with the pros while still in school.
“Some of the most beneficial learning opportunities I had as a musician were outside school,” said music professor Ryan Heinlein. “If I have students that are doing well in the classroom, I do what I can to find openings for them to play out in public while attending classes.”
If you’re a music aficionado, you’ve likely seen JCCC music students performing in the Kansas City area. For example, JCCC’s Jazz Combo has performed at the Uptown Lounge, Johnnie’s Jazz Club, and the Some Enchanted Evening Gala, with more concerts coming up!
“With these events, I can pass on the lessons I learned and be a resource for students,” said Heinlein.
JCCC amplifies your musical journey
Performing on stage is the ultimate goal for Tobias Oleary, who is earning his Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts and a Recording Arts Certificate.
“I love music,” said Tobias. “Once I graduate, I plan to write music, join a band, and tour around.”
Tobias’s plans weren’t always so clear. After graduating high school, he knew he wanted to attend college, but wasn’t sure if he was ready.
“I was worried I would be overwhelmed,” he said. “I knew JCCC would help me prepare.”
Becoming a Cavalier helped set Tobias up for success. He received the Dunham Musical scholarship and is an active performer in JCCC’s Jazz Band and Jazz Combo.
“I had a concert a few weeks ago for Jazz Band and I have an upcoming concert two weeks from now for Jazz Combo,” he said.
JCCC helps you sharpen your skills
For music student Sofia Ortiz, JCCC was the place where she and her talents could thrive.
“I wanted a place to continue my education that was local, affordable, and flexible enough to support my growth and artistic direction,” she said.
With plans to release her own music someday, Sofia has gained invaluable real-world experience through a variety of performance venues.
“As a JCCC student, I have performed in the Polsky Theatre, Yardley Hall, the Bodker Black Box, Knuckleheads, the Blue Room, the Nerman Museum, and the JCCC Gala at the Overland Park Convention Center with the JCCC Jazz Combo Band,” she said.
In addition to a robust performance schedule, Sofia was also awarded music scholarships. She cites the dedicated faculty for putting her on the path to success.
“Dr. Heinlein has been a great influence in my musical and personal development,” she said. “By offering performance opportunities, connecting me with the local music community, and supporting me with professors who extend their mentorship outside of class, JCCC is helping me achieve my goals.”