Music Institute's Lake Forest Campus Expands Programming

The Music Institute of Chicago announces the strategic expansion and restructuring of its campus system, which currently serves more than 3,000 students.

The 83-year-old institution has entered into a partnership with Fourth Presbyterian Church to open a campus within the Gratz Center, the church's new addition on Chestnut Street, just west of North Michigan Avenue in downtown Chicago. Nationally known for its commitment to music excellence in worship and also as host to more than 70 concerts a year, Fourth Church is a natural partner in this downtown expansion. The new Music Institute campus, opening in September, will provide high-quality music lessons and classes for children and adults, amplifying the Music Institute's already-strong presence in the city through its programs in the Chicago Public Schools.

Savitri Pai, a Music Institute Trustee, alumna, and Chicago resident, said, "Downtown residents have clamored for access to the Music Institute's excellent programs for many years. Now people can benefit from the Music Institute's programs without having to drive to the northern suburbs."

In addition to the new Chicago campus, the Music Institute will expand its facilities at the Grove Cultural Campus, 40 East Old Mill Road in Lake Forest. With the closure of its Highland Park campus this summer, the Lake Forest campus will now serve as a dynamic center for lessons, classes, chamber music, and performance for students of all ages.

The Music Institute previously announced the relocation and consolidation of its headquarters, Institute for Therapy through the Arts, Musical Theater, and World Music programs to 1702 Sherman Avenue in the heart of downtown Evanston. Each campus hub-in Lake Forest, Winnetka, Evanston, and Chicago-will offer a full range of education programming, including private lessons, Suzuki education, early childhood education, chamber music, jazz studies, and adult education classes. Satellite facilities in Lincolnshire and Downers Grove will continue to offer lessons and select programming.

"The Music Institute of Chicago is dedicated to providing the highest quality music education in a supportive and nurturing musical environment," said President and CEO Mark George. "Concentrating our resources at campus hubs allows us to enrich and expand our programming and foster a vibrant and engaging musical community. The new campus structure creates a nexus of teachers and students, from Chicago to Lake Forest."