Free K-8 Music Programs Announced at Music Institute

The Music Institute of Chicago will offer one free music performance or activity to every K-8 school in proximity to its campuses, located in Evanston, Downers Grove, Lake Forest, Lincolnshire, and Winnetka, as well as on Chicago's Near North Side during the 2017-18 school year. Schools in these and adjacent communities can request or collaborate on performances, listen-and-learn classes, musical instrument petting zoos, band and orchestra section rehearsals, master classes, and other music education activities.

In addition, students, teachers, and parents from these schools will receive free tickets to concerts on the Music Institute's Faculty and Guest Artist Series, which take place at the historic Nichols Concert Hall, 1490 Chicago Avenue in downtown Evanston. A family-friendly concert opens the series on Saturday, September 23 at 7:30 p.m. A reception follows the performance, when all audience members are welcome to enjoy frozen treats generously provided by Andy's Frozen Custard.

Music Institute President and CEO Mark George said, "We are a community music school, and our K-8 schools are at the center of our community. We appreciate our K-8 music teachers and are eager to collaborate with them. Our goal is to inspire students and support the work of the teachers so their school music programs continue to flourish."

Mary Jo Ferneding, music teacher at Greeley School in Winnetka said, "My students really benefitted from the sectional the Music Institute provided for the students in the chorus last year. It's great that the Music Institute is offering free services for K-8 schools in the area. We really appreciate the Music Institute working with us." >From Wilmette's Highcrest Middle School, Orchestra teacher Anne McTighe added, "The students had a blast and learned so much at the bass clinic provided by the Music Institute. I know what he talked to them about will really help improve their playing. Thank you for all the hard work you put into making this possible. I really appreciate being able to collaborate with the Music Institute."

The Music Institute of Chicago is dedicated to transforming lives through music education. Founded in 1931, the Music Institute has grown to become one of the largest and most respected community music schools in the nation. Offering musical excellence built on the strength of its distinguished faculty, commitment to quality, and breadth of programs and services, the Music Institute is a member of the National Guild for Community Arts Education and accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Pre-collegiate Arts Schools (ACCPAS). Each year, the Music Institute's teachers reach thousands of students of all ages and levels of experience. Music Institute locations include Chicago, Evanston, Winnetka, Lincolnshire, Lake Forest, and Downers Grove. In addition, the Music Institute is proud of its longstanding partnership with the Chicago Public Schools through its Arts Link program. The Music Institute offers lessons and classes, and concerts through its Community Music School, Academy, and Nichols Concert Hall.