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Evanston East Campus - Nichols Concert Hall

Campus Contact

Patrick O'Malley
Campus Director
Maria Alfaro
Administrative Assistant

1490 Chicago Avenue
Evanston, IL 60201
United States

Welcome to the Music Institute of Chicago's Evanston Campus. For more than 90 years, we have offered a wide range of private lessons and group classes to students of all ages. You can learn from our expert, supportive faculty in person - or online.

With teaching studios and rehearsal rooms, students of all ages are engaged in weekly private lessons, group classes, ensemble rehearsals, and many other musical activities.

Our friendly reception staff is ready to assist with registration, billing, and room scheduling questions. They also can provide parking meter change and restaurant recommendations. The Evanston Campus is also the home of Nichols Concert Hall, an elegant performance venue that presents concerts featuring not only MIC students and faculty, but numerous other Chicago-area artists and ensembles.

Please note special Thanksgiving Recess building hours for Evanston from Sunday, November 24-Sunday, December 1, 2024:

Thanksgiving Recess Building Hours

Sunday, Nov. 24            Normal hours
Monday, Nov. 25           Normal hours

Tuesday, Nov. 26           Make-ups only*
Wednesday, Nov. 27     Make-ups only*

Thursday, Nov. 28          Campus closed
Friday, Nov. 29                Campus closed
Saturday, No. 30             Campus closed
Sunday, Dec. 1                Campus closed

Campus Hours

Monday
9:15am - 9:00pm
Tuesday
9:15am - 9:00pm
Wednesday
9:15am - 9:00pm
Thursday
9:15am - 9:00pm
Friday
9:15am - 8:30pm
Saturday
8:15am - 7:30pm
Sunday
1:00pm - 5:30pm
Parking and Transportation

We are easily accessible by public transportation, with the Davis Street Purple Line CTA and Metra stations located within walking distance. Street parking is available, some spots are metered, accepting coins or credit cards. Please check local signs, which vary block by block. This Parking & Transportation Map shows nearby train stations and parking garages.

Facility Rental

The Music Institute of Chicago gladly rents studio and ensemble space at several campuses to outside individuals and groups seeking a place to practice and rehearse. Students enrolled in MIC classes can reserve practice studios at no charge, depending on availability.

To rent a studio, ensemble rehearsal room, or performance space (excluding Nichols Hall), please schedule an appointment with the front desk, then complete the rental agreement form making sure to select the proper campus. Please bring the agreement form with you and give to the front desk when you arrive.

The following rental fees apply to all Music Institute of Chicago campuses:

  • Studio - $15/hour
  • Mid-size ensemble room - $30/hour
  • Large ensemble room - $60/hour

Evanston Rental Details

Rental conditions

  • Practice room rentals are subject to availability and may be limited during peak teaching hours.
  • Practice rooms should be reserved 24 hours in advance by contacting the appropriate MIC Campus Director.
  • Payment (cash, check, or credit card) must be made to the receptionist at the time of the rental.
  • No food or drink is allowed in any practice room; open flames are prohibited.
  • Rooms must be left in the same condition as they were found.
  • Rooms are to be used solely for practicing music; no teaching or any objectionable/illegal activity is allowed.
  • Any violations or abuse in room privileges will result in immediate dismissal from the school and a revocation of any future room use.