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Well-designed programs and high-quality teaching at the Music Institute of Chicago help every student acquire the creative, social, cultural, and brain-building benefits of playing an instrument.

The Cornerstone of a Quality Music Education

  • The best-trained, most experienced music teachers in Chicago
  • Excellent learning environment and supportive community
  • Personalized teacher placement process with an expert music educator
  • Accepting beginning, casual, and advanced students of any age
  • Rolling registration all year
  • Two 17-week semesters, fall and spring, and a flexible summer session

Why Choose the Music institute of chicago?

  • The Music Institute's careful placement process and wide selection of faculty ensure the best student-teacher match.
  • MIC families join a supportive musical community of parents, students, and concertgoers.
  • Every student can participate in family concert events and community service performances.
  • Every student receives three free tickets to acclaimed Nichols Concert Hall concerts presented by MIC.

Start private lessons anytime; rolling registration is always available. The MIC academic year includes two 17-week semesters, fall and spring, and a flexible summer session. Private instruction is available for all ages and levels of interest and ability. Whether you are a beginner, casual learner, or advanced student, there is a place for you at the Music Institute of Chicago!

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Great Music Teachers Make a Difference

The breadth and depth of our music faculty is unparalleled.  Nearly 200 in number, Music Institute of Chicago music teachers are experienced, dedicated educators and performers who hold degrees from the world’s finest music schools. The Music Institute faculty is among the best-trained and most experienced in the Chicago area.

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MIC Faculty on stage at Nichols Concert Hall

Discounted Musicianship Classes for MIC Students

Nichols Concert Hall presents pianist Matthew Hagle

What Is Musicianship?

Musicianship is an important component of a well-rounded music education. Weekly musicianship classes include sight singing, rhythmic reading, dictation, keyboard skills, music theory, history, and literature.

  • Achieve greater competency and enjoyment at your instrument
  • Increase your ability to think critically and express musical ideas effectively
  • Share your love of music with fellow students


At MIC, we strongly advocate for our private instruction students of all ages to enhance their learning journey by enrolling in a musicianship class of the appropriate level. As a testament to our commitment, we offer a significant discount on this value-added experience.

Are Musicianship Classes for Everyone?

  • The musicianship program is designed for students aged 5 - adult
  • Private instruction students under 5 may enroll in a Musikgarten class instead of musicianship for only the cost of materials.
  • We understand that adult students have unique learning needs and interests. That's why we offer specially designed adult musicianship classes tailored to their musical journeys.

Enrollment in musicianship classes occurs once annually on a first-come, first-served basis, and registration is required.
Please contact your instructor or Campus Director for placement guidance.