Music Institute Launches Roots & Rock Program

The Music Institute of Chicago, long recognized for teaching classical and jazz music, is offering new classes exploring rock, folk, blues, and the entire spectrum of American roots music beginning September 4. Classes are available for children, teens, and adults at Music Institute locations in Chicago, Evanston, Winnetka, and Lake Forest. Registration is now open at microcks.org or 847.905.1500.

"Roots & Rock sets us on a path to fully embrace musical traditions that have become an integral part of our history and culture as well as the soundtrack of our lives," said Music Institute President and CEO Mark George.

Guitar sessions focus on the fundamentals using a wide range of music, from Muddy Waters and the Roots to Elvis Presley and Jimmy Hendrix, from Bob Dylan and the Allman Brothers to Alabama Shakes and Taylor Swift. Classes meet once a week with students making music from day one, as they grow their musical skills and learn about the great traditions of American roots music. At the end of each eight-week session, students have the opportunity to play with their teachers for friends and family at informal café-style performances. For experienced guitarists, some of Chicago's most seasoned teachers and performers offer private sessions in rock, blues, country, and bluegrass styles.

The Music Institute offers songwriting sessions for people who have always wanted to create their own songs or want to refine the music they have already created. Experienced faculty songwriters guide beginning and mid-level guitar and keyboard students through the creative process and help them prepare their songs for informal café performances or recording, as well as introduce students to the basics of the music business. In addition, music production classes are available, featuring the iconic Apple music app, GarageBand.

"In creating Roots & Rock, we are responding to the needs and interests of our community," said George. "American popular music is our country's greatest contribution to world culture. Roots & Rock gives everyone access to the power of this music in a friendly group setting with the best teachers."

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.

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