From ICC to Berklee: Chris Turns Music into Advocacy

Chris’s journey in music was almost derailed before it began.
Despite growing up with a music teacher father and playing in both marching band and a high school rock band, Chris doubted whether a stable music career was possible. A challenging high school experience, shaped by a learning disability, left him uncertain about college and his future.
That all changed when Chris discovered ICC. Encouraged by his parents to explore the College’s offerings, he found a supportive environment where he could thrive. With the help of Terri Ingles in Access Services, Chris received the accommodations he needed to succeed.
He also learned he could study vocal performance at ICC, and his path began to take shape. Although Chris wasn’t a traditional vocalist, the music faculty at ICC embraced his unique style.
Dr. Julie Clemens, his vocal coach, tailored the program to highlight Chris’s strengths rather than forcing him to fit a rigid mold. This personalized approach deepened Chris’s passion for music and built his confidence to pursue larger goals.
“ICC instilled a love of learning that I didn’t expect and gave me the opportunity to succeed. I cannot express how much I love ICC and what it means to our community.”
Thanks to the supportive faculty and flexible courses at ICC, Chris earned a small business management certificate and started considering his options for earning a bachelor’s degree in music business.
He decided to transfer to Berklee Online College of Music—a division of Boston’s prestigious Berklee School of Music. The faculty there were so impressed with Chris and the quality of his education that they asked where he earned his associate’s degree, and he shared his experience at ICC.
“ICC provides a high-quality education, passionate staff, and a focus on your success. It’s a place where you can stand out and prepare for your future,” he says.
Chris was such a compelling advocate for his alma mater that Berklee contacted ICC to establish an articulation agreement. Berklee’s desire to attract more ICC students with the same high level of skill as Chris opened doors for future ICC students to transfer seamlessly to Berklee.
Now based in East Peoria, Chris runs a successful recording studio from his home, serving musicians and clients from across the nation. He remains a champion for ICC and is proud to be the trailblazer who will lead many more ICC students to success at Berklee and beyond.