The Old Town School of Folk Music in Chicago’s Lincoln Park

The Old Town School of Folk Music in Chicago’s Lincoln Park is a world-renowned music institution that has been teaching music and dance to people of all ages for over 60 years.

Introduction

Founded in 1957, the Old Town School of Folk Music is one of the most revered music institutions in the country. Located in the heart of Chicago’s historic Lincoln Park neighborhood, the school has been a vital part of the city’s musical fabric for over 60 years.

A nonprofit organization, the Old Town School is dedicated to preserving and promoting folk and traditional music from around the world. The school offers classes and workshops for all ages and abilities, from beginners to professionals. With more than 700 different classes offered each semester, there is something for everyone at the Old Town School.

The school also features a renowned concert series, which brings world-renowned musicians to Chicago’s intimate venues. The series has included everyone from Bob Dylan and Patsy Cline to Ani DiFranco and Cake. In addition to concerts, the Old Town School also presents public lectures, films, and other special events throughout the year.

Whether you’re a music lover or a budding musician, the Old Town School of Folk Music is worth a visit. With its rich history, commitment to excellence, and dedication to preserving folk music traditions, the school is an important part of Chicago’s cultural landscape.

History

The Old Town School of Folk Music is the largest and oldest school of its kind in the United States. It was founded in 1957 by Frank Hamilton, Win Stracke, and Mary Lee Breese with the goal of teaching music to anyone who wanted to learn. The school is located in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood.

Founded in 1957

The Old Town School of Folk Music is a music school in Chicago, Illinois. It was founded in 1957 by Frank Hamilton, Mae neighborhood on the city’s North Side. The school offers classes in folk music and dance for all ages, from infants to senior citizens.

The Old Town School is one of the few music schools in the United States that offers classes in folk music and dance for all ages. It also has a strong community outreach program, which provides free or low-cost concerts and classes to underserved communities in Chicago.

Moved to Lincoln Park in 1964

In 1964, the school moved to its current home in Lincoln Park at 909 W. Armitage Avenue. The old town school building at 333 W. Lake Street was torn down in 1965, and the Mid-City campus operated out of various locations until it too closed in 1991.

Programs

The Old Town School of Folk Music in Chicago’s Lincoln Park offers a variety of programming options for students of all ages and levels of experience. Classes are offered in many different instruments, styles, and genres, giving students the opportunity to find the perfect fit for their interests and goals.

Music instruction for all levels

Old Town School of Folk Music’s adult music programs allow people of all skill levels to follow their musical passions. Whether you are a complete beginner or a seasoned professional, we have a place for you in our music community.

We offer programs in a variety of instruments and styles, including guitar, piano, voice, fiddle, mandolin, banjo, ukulele, harmonica, drums, percussion, world music ensembles and more. In addition to our comprehensive selection of weekly classes, we also offer workshops and intensives for those who want to dive deeper into their musical studies.

Performance opportunities

Here at the Old Town School, there are plenty of opportunities to take your music out of the classroom and onto the stage. Our two main stages, Goose Island and Maurer Hall, host hundreds of performances each year by students of all ages and levels. These performances are open to the public and are a great way to showcase your skills in front of a supportive audience.

In addition to our regular performance opportunities, we also offer a number of special programs that give students the chance to perform at festivals, concerts, and other events around Chicago. These programs are open to students of all levels and provide a great way to get involved in the local music scene.

Notable alumni

Old Town School of Folk Music has produced many notable alumni including:
* Steve Goodman – folk singer-songwriter (“City of New Orleans”)
* John Prine – folk singer-songwriter and musician (“Angel from Montgomery”)
* Bonnie Koloc – folk singer-songwriter and actress
* spiders – rock band formed by graduates of the Old Town School
* Lynne Jordan – jazz and blues singer

Conclusion

The Old Town School of Folk Music is one of the most beloved institutions in Chicago, and it’s easy to see why. With a rich history and a commitment to teaching and promoting folk music, the school has something for everyone. Whether you’re a longtime fan of folk music or just getting started, the Old Town School is definitely worth a visit.