Academy Curriculum

Jim Setapen, Director of the Academy

The Academy is a core program of the Music Institute of Chicago. The Academy program (30 weeks per year) is designed to be the primary musical experience in our students’ lives and entrance is by selective audition.

Accepted students participate in all aspects of the curriculum including private lessons with The Academy artist faculty, chamber music, chamber orchestra, and accelerated theory classes.

Pianists additionally study keyboard literature and skills and keyboard improvisation in an intimate group setting.

Components Include

Private Instruction
The heart of an Academy education. Study with MIC’s renowned artist faculty, the equal of any conservatory in the world
Chamber Music
Weekly coachings with artist faculty, scheduled rehearsal time, and performance classes
Enrichment
The only program of its kind to offer regular master classes and workshops with internationally recognized visiting artists, educators, and professional experts in the field
Chamber Orchestra
Performance opportunities, tours, and a challenging repertoire in an intimate ensemble
Concerto Competition
Strings winners perform with Lake Forest Symphony and Ars Viva Symphony Orchestra
Career Development
Guidance on competitions, auditions, summer programs, and college/conservatory applications
Performances
Philanthropic, community, educational, and outreach opportunities as well as paid engagements
Networking
Opportunities to connect with peers, teachers, conductors, and managers