Originating in 1931, this distinctive community music school is an accredited member of the National Association of Schools of Music, and the only school of its kind in Illinois. With over 120 faculty members, The Music Institute offers a full-fledged array of programs to more than 5,000 people, from education classes for students across the age spectrum to Early Music and World Music Programs, from private lessons to its Institute for Therapy through the Arts.
Added to these impressive offerings is a vibrant concert season with multiple festivals throughout the year at MIC’s performance home, Nichols Concert Hall. The expected performances featuring gifted guest artists and the school’s talented staff are well-represented during the Institute’s concert season, but the sheer variety of concert offerings are staggering: the new annual Brazilian Music Festival, featuring Orquestra de Samba, an MIC ensemble-in-residence; the Chicago Duo-Piano Festival, which highlights top-tier pianists and boasts a young artists competition; the Four Score Festival, dedicated to the creation and performance of contemporary compositions, includes lectures and concerts from professional composers today, a Composers Lab and a competition for young Midwestern composers aged 12-18; a Family Concerts series, affordably priced at $10 per ticket. With all that said, the ever-dynamic Music Institute of Chicago just may be the most exciting place in the country to experience music.
Music Institute of Chicago Information
- Public Transportation: Good
- Handicapped Accessibility: Good
- Performances/Programs: MIC provides music education for people of all ages and abilities in several Chicago-area facilities. It holds frequent performances by students, faculty, guest artists, in-residence ensembles, and local arts organizations at the Nichols Concert Hall location
- Ticket Prices: Generally $20, $15 for seniors, and $7 for students. Many free events are also offered.
