Which Music Program is Right for Me?
Lessons, classes and ensembles for all ages.
The Music Institute of Chicago offers music lessons, classes, and ensembles for students at every stage. This quick guide will give you an overview of some of the programs we offer to help you find the best fit for you or your family. From early childhood to adult, we provide programs that meet you where you are and take you where you want to go!
For Everyone: Private Lessons
Private lessons at MIC offer the ultimate flexibility and personalized learning experience for musicians of all ages, skill levels, and instruments. MIC offers both Suzuki and Traditional lessons.
Private lessons are perfect for you if you want to:
- Learn at your own pace and convenience
- Receive expert instruction from highly qualified and experienced teachers
- Benefit from our personalized teacher placement process to find the perfect match
- Enjoy a wealth of free musical opportunities, including masterclasses, concerts, performance showcases, and workshops
Learn More about Private Lessons
For the Little Ones: Musikgarten®
If your child is eager to explore the world of music, but isn't ready for private lessons, Musikgarten® is the ideal place to start. Musikgarten® is a joyful music and movement program designed for children from birth to age 7. The program introduces young children to music through singing, dancing, and instrument play.
Musikgarten® is perfect for you if you want to:
- Strengthen your bond with your child
- Stimulate your child's brain development
- Cultivate your child's listening skills, rhythm, and pitch
- Foster social interaction and a love of music
For the Ensemble Player: Chamber Music
Our Chamber Music program is designed for intermediate to advanced musicians seeking to refine their ensemble skills and explore a rich repertoire. Students studying privately outside the Music Institute are also welcome to participate in the MIC chamber music program. Available for youth (age 8+) and adults.
Chamber music is perfect for you if you:
- Are an intermediate or advanced instrumentalist
- Thrive in a collaborative environment
- Desire to explore a diverse repertoire
- Have strong sight-reading skills
- Sing or play a string, piano, woodwind, brass, harp, guitar, or percussion instrument
Learn More about Chamber Music
For the Aspiring Professional: The Academy
Our Academy is a rigorous pre-conservatory program designed to prepare gifted young musicians (ages 14-18) for a career in music. With the ultimate goal of creating musicians for the 21st century, the Academy provides gifted young musicians with the tools, knowledge, and inspiration to be leaders in classical music performance and education.
This program is perfect for you if you:
- Aspire to attend a top-tier music conservatory or university
- Possess exceptional musical talent and dedication
- Seek a challenging and supportive learning environment
For the Lifelong Learner: Adult Studies
There are a number of benefits of taking music lessons as an adult. Our Adult Studies programs offer a welcoming and inspiring environment for lifelong learning. Whether you're a beginner, a returning musician, or looking to deepen your musical knowledge, we offer a variety of options to suit your individual goals. Private lessons and ensembles are available for adults.
Adult studies are perfect for you if you:
- Want to learn a new instrument or rediscover an old one
- Desire to reduce stress and improve overall well-being
- Seek intellectual stimulation and cognitive enhancement
- Want to connect with a supportive community of music lovers
- Are looking for a creative outlet and personal fulfillment
- Looking for flexibility
Learn More about Adult Studies
Registration is open!
Take the next step by filling out our inquiry form. Our dedicated team will connect you with a campus director for a personalized placement meeting. Together, we'll find the perfect program to match your goals and aspirations.