best music programs in Chicago, IL

Swift Nature Camp is the perfect place for your child to spend their summer! Our overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 is located in beautiful Wisconsin. We offer a unique blend of traditional summer camp activities and environmental education to help kids increase their appreciation for nature, science, and the environment. We’ve got it all – fun, friendships, adventure trips, and nature! Spend your summer with us – you’ll never forget it!

Every summer, campers and staff from all around the globe, and from a variety of backgrounds, return to their own special home away from home. At our camp in Central Wisconsin, situated on an 80-acre lakefront compound, there’s never a shortage of activities and experiences for everyone to enjoy. From biking around Stratton Lake to water skiing, drama, rock climbing, and arts & crafts, our campers can stay busy for hours on end. At our camp, campers can explore, take on new challenges, and make lifelong friendships. Our campers and staff come from all walks of life, and every year they return to our camp to enjoy new experiences, make memories, and have the time of their lives. The beautiful lakefront facility in Central Wisconsin provides the perfect place for campers to explore, challenge themselves, and make lasting friendships.

Chicago Filmmakers is a long-standing, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a mission to serve the Chicago filmmaking community. Established in 1973, the organization provides an array of services to local filmmakers, including low-cost film classes and youth camps, production funding and fiscal sponsorship, equipment and space rentals, and professional development and networking opportunities. In addition to supporting the local filmmaking community, Chicago Filmmakers also serves Chicago audiences with weekly screenings of independent films, as well as two annual film festivals. Reeling: The Chicago LGBTQ+ International Film Festival and The Onion City Experimental Film + Video Festival both offer viewers a unique opportunity to experience independent films from around the world. Chicago Filmmakers is dedicated to supporting the local filmmaking community and providing educational and entertainment resources to Chicago audiences. Through their array of services and annual events, the organization is a valuable resource for those looking to get involved in the local film industry or simply enjoy independent films.

At Lakeshore Sport & Fitness at Illinois Center, we understand that family dynamics are changing and that’s why we are here to provide the best services and events for the growing family community. We strive to create an enjoyable atmosphere and to provide the best possible experience for our members and their families. We look forward to welcoming you to the Lakeshore Sport & Fitness at Illinois Center family.

Eckhart Park is a great resource for the West Town community! It boasts 8.85 acres of indoor and outdoor fun. With an indoor swimming pool, two gymnasiums, a fitness center, and a boxing center, the park offers something for everyone. What's more, the outdoors of Eckhart Park provides plenty of fun for families. Enjoy baseball diamonds, an athletic field for football and soccer, and a playground with a water spray feature. Plus, the playground was recently renovated in Summer 2014 as part of Mayor Emanuel's Chicago Plays! Program. Finally, Eckhart Park is home to a community garden. Residents can come together to learn about gardening techniques and cultivate their own plants. With all the amenities Eckhart Park has to offer, it's a great resource for the West Town community!

For the sports-minded, there's a fitness center, indoor swimming pool, and gymnasium at Gill Park. Plus, the park is equipped with a t-ball field and playground, offering plenty of outdoor fun. Families can also take advantage of the park's assembly hall, which has a portable stage, as well as its kitchen and several clubrooms for rental.

Alex's Music Studio is proud to offer accessible music instruction to everyone, no matter what age, ability, or specialty. We strive to provide a fun and rewarding musical journey for everyone! We are dedicated to ensuring that each student, whether beginner, intermediate, or advanced, receives high-quality and affordable private music lessons. Our studio is conveniently located in the heart of Roscoe Village, Chicago IL. We offer both in-person and virtual lessons to fit everyone's needs. For our virtual lessons, we provide instruction through Zoom or FaceTime, making it easy for students to learn from the comfort of their own homes. At Alex's Music Studio, we believe that music should be accessible to everyone. We hope that you will join us on your own musical adventure and discover the joy of making music!

At Bucktown Music, we recognize that every student is unique and has different goals. Our team works diligently to provide an individualized and flexible approach to music education. We strive to create an environment that is both encouraging and supportive, so that each of our students can develop both their musical abilities and a love for music. We believe that music can be an integral part of any student’s life and we are passionate about helping others discover the power of music. Whether you are interested in piano, guitar, voice or ukulele lessons, we are here to assist you with your musical journey. If you’re ready to take the next step in your musical journey, contact us today to find out how we can help!

Founded in 1992, Chicago Kids Company (CKC) is a non-profit theater company that produces original musicals based on fairy tales and children’s stories. Paige Coffman and Jesus Perez, CKC's co-founders, are still running the show today! They write, direct, compose, design, and create the colorful productions that have become a signature of CKC. This award-winning duo has written and produced every single CKC show for the past 29 years. CKC performances are designed to be enjoyed by the whole family. Professional actors, sing-along songs, brightly colored costumes and sets, and up-to-date references make the shows fun for children ages 2 to 10. Now in its 29th season, Chicago Kids Company is thrilled to continue to share the joy of theater with young audiences.

If you’re looking for an exciting and enriching activity for your family, look no further than Forevermore Dance & Theatre Arts in the Northwest side of Chicago. They offer a wide range of classes for all ages, including dance, acting, and music lessons, as well as performance opportunities to let their students show off their skills. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced performer, there’s something for everyone! If you need more information or would like to discuss the best classes for your family, don’t hesitate to give Forevermore a call or email. The staff would be happy to talk with you and set up a tour of the school, so you can experience the classes for yourself. You’ll be able to get a feel for the atmosphere and watch as your kids make friends and build confidence. Forevermore Dance & Theatre Arts is the perfect way to give your family a creative outlet and a chance to explore the arts. With an array of classes and performance opportunities, your family can find the perfect fit for them. Don’t wait – contact Forevermore today and start your journey together!

Kindermusik North Shore’s interactive music and movement program is designed to nurture your child’s cognitive, emotional, social, language, and physical development in a fun and relaxed environment. Our philosophy is based on the belief that every child is musical, every parent is the child's most important teacher, and that the home is the most important place for learning to take root and grow. We have created a stimulating environment where parents and children can explore the power of music together. Through guided activities and musical play, your child will develop language skills, literacy, problem solving, social skills, self-esteem, and musicality. With Kindermusik North Shore, you can provide your child with an enriching experience and create special memories that will last a lifetime.

At Merit School of Music, we believe in providing young people with the opportunity to achieve their musical and personal potential. We offer a diverse community of talented students a high-quality music education, taught by passionate and experienced teaching artists. Our downtown location and outreach programs serve over 2,500 students annually, reflecting the socioeconomic and ethnic diversity of Chicago. Our students learn together, dream together and teach each other, gaining the tools they need to excel in life. Every year, 100% of our graduates go on to college, demonstrating the power of music to transform lives.

Today, the Old Town School of Folk Music is a thriving institution which offers more than 700 accredited classes, workshops, and private lessons to students of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. From guitar and banjo classes to folk dancing and family sing-alongs, the school has something for everyone. Professional instructors teach a range of musical genres, from American folk music to international styles. The Old Town School of Folk Music also offers concerts featuring nationally renowned artists. It is a place where students can celebrate music and cultural expressions rooted in the traditions of diverse American and global communities. The Old Town School of Folk Music is dedicated to providing broad access to the arts. Its five-year strategic plan focuses on improving and expanding artistic opportunities for its students. To ensure its programs remain accessible, the school provides tuition assistance to qualified families. Through its commitment to quality education and its dedication to providing broad access to the arts, the Old Town School of Folk Music has become a pillar of the Chicago community.

The Ruth Page Center for the Arts is a 501(c)3 non-profit charitable organization that has been serving the Chicago dance community for 50 years. Located in the heart of the Gold Coast, just steps away from Michigan Avenue's Magnificent Mile, The Center provides a unique platform for the development of great artists and connecting them with audiences and community. With a primary focus on dance as a critical art form, its programming ensures that children and dance artists have the opportunity to train, work and perform at the highest level of excellence. The Center's mission extends beyond artistic development, as it also serves to enhance community development. It is the only organization in Chicago that offers this type of programming within a single entity, and its impact is felt by over 40,000 people every year.

Introducing your baby to the world of music has never been easier with Old Town School of Folk Music's Wiggleworms®! With specially trained educators and talented musicians, Wiggleworms classes offer your baby the chance to learn and explore with instruments such as guitars, ukuleles, banjos, and gathering drums. This unique experience will have your baby singing and dancing along to their favorite songs and discovering new ones as they develop a lifelong love for music. Wiggleworms® is the perfect place for babies to connect with music and make new friends. With surprise elements in every class, your baby will be sure to have a blast. Led by experienced and knowledgeable instructors, classes feature original songs and favorites that are sure to delight. Make the most of this special time with your baby and bring them along to Old Town School of Folk Music's Wiggleworms®. With music and fun at the center of each class, your little one is sure to leave with a smile and a newfound appreciation for music!

Since its founding in 2005, Chicago Children’s Theatre has committed to creating world-class theatre for children and families. The company has earned critical acclaim for its innovative writing, directing, and performing, as well as its high-quality design and production expertise. In 2017, the theatre received the National Theatre Award from the American Theatre Wing, creators of the Tony Awards, making it the first theater for young audiences in the nation to receive such an honor. The theatre also produces The Red Kite Project, a multi-sensory interactive theatre program tailored to the needs of children on the autism spectrum.

Grupo Axé Capoeira is a renowned Afro-Brazilian performance group that has been bringing the vibrant and unique culture of Brazil to the Greater Chicago Area since 2002. With a repertoire of colorful costumes, beautiful dances, and amazing acrobatics, their performances are sure to bring a smile to any audience. They are also experienced travelers, having performed in states as far north as Michigan and as far south as Indiana. Hoping to make your event one to remember? Look no further than Grupo Axé Capoeira! Every performance is tailored to the event and includes live music. Prices are also adjusted to fit within your budget and take into consideration factors such as duration, distance, and number of performers. With their stunning performances, you're sure to have a one-of-a-kind experience that will stay with you and your guests for years to come.

Finding the right day camp for your child can be daunting. You want them to have fun and make friends, but you also want them to be safe and supervised. Kids Playing Camp Inc. offers the perfect solution. At Kids Playing Camp Inc., they take supervision seriously. They employ adults, not high school kids, meaning your child is in the capable hands of experienced coaches, teachers, and college students. What’s more, they have a 1 to 6 ratio, meaning one adult for every six kids. This ensures that your child is getting the one-on-one attention they need to thrive. Safety is paramount at Kids Playing Camp Inc., and they wouldn’t have it any other way. Your child will be able to have fun and make friends in a safe and supervised environment – the perfect combination for a fun and enjoyable day camp experience.

At Camp One Step, we've been bringing joy, support, strength, and hope to campers and their families since 1978. Our camps and digital programs are designed for kids with cancer, their siblings, and even their parents. We believe that inclusion, accessibility, and connections are the key to creating a meaningful experience. Camp One Step builds lifetime friendships and helps kids reclaim the joy of childhood while allowing families to feel a sense of wholeness. We are passionate about creating a safe and welcoming environment for all campers and their families.

The YMCA is the leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community by supporting young people, enriching the health and well-being of all ages, and inspiring action in our communities. The YMCA is an organization like no other. Our mission is to make an impact in our communities – to help empower young people and improve the health and wellbeing of all ages. We believe that by connecting people to their potential, purpose and each other, we can bring about positive change in 10,000 communities across the country. At the YMCA, we are dedicated to making a difference. We create partnerships with local organizations to bring about real change and create a better future for our communities. We are committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for young people to grow and become the leaders of tomorrow.

The Chicago Academy for the Arts is an independent high school for performing and visual arts that has earned national recognition. Designated a National School of Distinction by the John F. Kennedy Center, the Academy provides students with a unique blend of college-prep academics and professional-level arts training. The Academy’s daily schedule features three blocks of academic classes and a flex period, followed by a three-plus hour immersion in the student’s chosen arts department. Dance, Media Arts, Music, Musical Theatre, Theatre, and Visual Arts are all offered, giving students the opportunity to learn the skills necessary for academic success, critical thought, and creative expression.

At our school, we understand the importance of fostering a child’s natural curiosity. We believe our responsive curriculum allows children to explore concepts and ideas in ways that are meaningful to them. Our educators observe the interest and enthusiasm of the children and use that to design long-term projects and questions. We carefully balance the individual and collective learning and growth of our students when presenting materials and ideas. Our program is play-based and structured to provide both time and space for exploration. Our classrooms are filled with three, four, and five-year-olds engaged in activities such as exploring shapes and patterns, building with blocks, and drawing. Through this approach, we strive to provide an environment that encourages each child’s natural curiosity.

Based out of JCYS Lincoln Square Ravenswood, campers can spend their days crafting art projects, learning yoga poses, singing songs, and even swimming. Not to mention, special workshops hosted by experts in sports, arts and crafts, and more! Kids will come home each day with stories to tell and new skills to show off. Big City Day Camp gives city kids a chance to find their creative outlets and have fun outdoors. From JCYS Lincoln Square Ravenswood, campers can embark on a summer of exploration, with plenty of activities to keep them busy. Swimming, art projects, yoga classes, and singing – the possibilities are endless. Plus, the opportunity to learn from experts in sports, arts and crafts, and more! When the day is done, your little one will be ready to tell you all about their exciting adventures. Make this summer unforgettable for your city kid at Big City Day Camp. Based out of JCYS Lincoln Square Ravenswood, campers can dive into a world of stories, crafts, music, swimming and more. With special workshops from top-notch experts in sports, arts and crafts, and more, your child will come home full of energy and excitement, eager to share their new experiences. Make this summer the best yet with Big City Day Camp!

At EBC we believe that every child can benefit from participating in fun and engaging activities. That’s why our Family & Kids team offers a range of exciting programs for children of all ages. From fitness clinics to art and dance classes, we have something to suit every child’s interests. Our team of experienced professionals, including fitness, swimming, tennis and golf pros, has built strong relationships with the kids we serve over the years. At EBC, we strive to make sure every child has the opportunity to explore their creative side, build physical strength, and enjoy meaningful experiences. Our comprehensive range of programs are designed to equip children with skills they will carry with them for life. Whether they’re attending our fitness clinics, art classes, or swimming lessons, kids will be surrounded by an encouraging and supportive environment. Our Family & Kids team is dedicated to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all children. We understand the importance of providing children with the best possible experience, and our staff of professionals are passionate about helping kids reach their goals. With years of experience, our fitness, swimming, tennis and golf pros are committed to building lasting relationships with the kids we serve. Our team works hard to ensure each child has a positive and rewarding experience.

Laura Doherty has been delighting families with her acoustic-folk music for over a decade. After picking up the guitar at age 16, she moved to Chicago and joined the teaching staff at the Old Town School of Folk Music. There she became the Director of the popular Wiggleworms program and, in 2009, decided to go full-time with kids’ music. Her dedication to crafting sweet, folk-inspired songs has been rewarded with critical acclaim. Her first album Kids in the City won the Gold Parents' Choice Award, while her follow-up albums Shining Like a Star and In a Heartbeat both won the Silver Parents' Choice Award. Her latest album Animal Tracks (2016) is a collection of her most engaging animal songs, and her newest album High Five (2018) has earned the Gold Parents' Choice award and has been receiving lots of radio play across the country. It touches on themes of friendship, family and childhood.

The Kelly Hall YMCA is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for everyone who walks through our doors. Our programs are designed to promote healthy lifestyles and to help children, families, and communities grow and thrive. By investing in the YMCA, you are helping us offer these essential programs and services to the community. At the Kelly Hall YMCA, we are dedicated to providing a safe and inviting environment for everyone who visits us. Your investment helps us provide the resources needed to care for the children, families, and communities we are honored to serve. We offer a variety of fitness programs, sports activities, camps, and youth programs to help keep you and your family healthy and happy. Come and explore our basketball court, open gym, and more! Your contribution to the YMCA helps us to offer essential programs and services that strengthen and support the community.

At the YMCA, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential. That’s why we are committed to developing our next generation of leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers. Our goal is to bring about lasting change to communities across Chicagoland. At the McCormick YMCA, we strive to create a safe, welcoming, and encouraging environment. We want every person who walks in our doors to feel supported and included. Your investment is crucial in providing the necessary resources to help children and families grow and thrive. The YMCA is a powerful force for good in the community, and we are proud to do our part to build a brighter future for all. We invite you to join us in making a positive impact and helping empower the next generation to reach their full potential.

With your help, the Lake View YMCA can continue to provide a secure and nurturing environment that fosters learning and growth. As a parent, you want the best for your children. When you invest in the YMCA, you are not only providing your children with a safe and inspiring environment, but you are also contributing to a greater cause - improving the lives of all the youth in our communities. Your donation to the Lake View YMCA will ensure that the Y is able to continue to serve the families of Chicagoland and provide a place where children can learn, grow, and thrive.

Parents seeking an engaging summer day camp for their children with social challenges need look no further than the One In A Hundred summer camp. Established in 2009, the camp provides a positive atmosphere for children to gain valuable social language skills. Through the use of Social Thinking® techniques, executive functioning techniques, and role play experiences, campers learn how to interact with their peers in a meaningful way. This summer, provide your kids with the opportunity to make lasting friendships in a supportive camp environment.

JUF Young Families is all about creating a vibrant and connected Jewish community in the greater Chicago area. We bring together families of all backgrounds to explore and celebrate Jewish traditions, holidays, and milestones. We also encourage parents to build a strong community by volunteering together. Our community is diverse and we are proud of it, as it makes us stronger and more inclusive. No matter your level of Jewish knowledge or observance, we are here to help you gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for Jewish life. We believe that Judaism has a lot to offer modern parents in terms of enrichment and support. We also recognize the importance of each family’s unique contribution to the overall Jewish community. We are everywhere – from play spaces and synagogues to grocery stores and preschools. We look to a variety of experts, including rabbis, musicians, educators, and artists, to help us become the best parents and people we can be. We invite you to join us for a cup of coffee, a free Jewish book, and other special programs and events. Let’s build our village together!

At our early childhood arts, enrichment and parent resource center, located in the Bucktown and Gold Coast neighborhoods of Chicago, we are dedicated to igniting wonder and compassion in the classroom and beyond. We provide a unique combination of art, play and child development best practices that will help your child explore new heights of creativity and development. Our center is the perfect place for your child to develop and explore. We offer an environment that encourages creativity, exploration and learning. Our goal is to provide children with an opportunity to express themselves artistically and to build an understanding of the world around them. Our staff is highly trained in child development best practices and can provide resources to help parents and caregivers ensure their child is getting the best possible start in life.

At JUDA, we strive to provide a warm and welcoming environment for our students to explore Jewish culture and develop a strong connection to their heritage. Our dedicated educators provide an enriching and enjoyable learning experience for our students. Through engaging and relevant lessons, our students are encouraged to think critically about their Jewish identity and develop a positive and meaningful relationship with their faith. Our goal is that by the end of the year, our students will have a deep love and appreciation for their Jewish heritage, and will be empowered to carry their faith into their everyday lives.

For nearly fifty years, the Beverly Arts Center has been a beacon of culture in the Chicago metro area. From its 400-seat theatre to its art gallery and exhibition spaces, this not-for-profit organization is home to a wide variety of high-quality programs in dance, visual arts, music, film and theatre. Its 40,000 square foot space provides plenty of room to explore, with music and dance studios, art classrooms, and event rental spaces, including a courtyard and sun-filled atrium. Located in Chicago’s historic Beverly/Morgan Park neighborhood, the Beverly Arts Center is more than just a hub of culture. It is also home to an extensive community outreach program, providing education, outreach, and resources to the local community. With a commitment to creating a thriving arts culture, the BAC is dedicated to making the arts accessible to everyone and inspiring positive change in the community.

Dr Lin Day is a go-to parenting expert in the UK, with an impressive resume of qualifications and over 40 years of experience working with parents and children. To support and empower parents, she founded Baby Sensory and Hello Baby to offer the best possible service for the most important year of a baby's life. Dr Day has also been a regular feature writer and speaker in the field of childcare and education, and personally ran classes for 9 years. Through her innovative programs, she seeks to foster a lifelong love of learning and development for babies and toddlers.

Bringing literature, geography, history and science to life, Kidworks Touring Theatre Company is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that's been around since 1987. For over 30 years, they've been providing interactive touring productions, drama workshops and artist-in-residency programs to schools, libraries, park districts and museums across the nation. Over one million children have been impacted by their mission of "opening the doors between education and imagination." Parents looking to give their kids an enriching and inspiring experience should look no further than Kidworks Touring Theatre Company.