String Lessons for Every Age and Level
Whether your child is picking up a first violin or you're an adult returning to the cello after years away, we see the musician in you.
The Music Institute of Chicago faculty offer private lessons in violin, viola, cello, and string bass for beginners through advanced players, with Suzuki and traditional approaches to fit how you learn best.
Inquire About String Lessons Today
Why Study Strings at MIC
- Teachers matched to you. We place every student with a teacher who fits their age, level, goals, and schedule.
- Suzuki or Traditional. Choose the learning method that suits your family, or ask us to help you decide.
- More than private lessons. Chamber music, master classes, music theory, and workshops give students a reason to practice and a place to shine.
- Room to grow. Students can move from first lessons all the way to our pre-college conservatory program, The Academy.
- Close to home. Our campus locations are spread across Chicagoland, including downtown Chicago, Evanston, Winnetka, Lake Forest, and Hinsdale. Find one nearest you!
Instruments We Teach
Violin and viola
Our violin and viola teachers work with young beginners, teens preparing for auditions, and adults playing just for the joy of it. Lessons build a strong foundation in tone, technique, and reading music, along with building confidence to perform.
Cello
Cello students learn to make a warm, full sound from their very first lessons, Our cello teachers offer Suzuki and traditional instruction, and students often join chamber music groups and orchestras as they progress.
String Bass
The bass is the foundation of the orchestra, and bass players are in demand for ensembles. Lessons cover classical technique, with a path into chamber music and orchestra.
Early Music
For players drawn to historical performance, we also offer private instruction on Baroque violin and viola da gamba.
Suzuki or traditional: which is right for us?
The Suzuki method starts young children by ear, much as they learn to speak, with a parent learning alongside and taking part in lessons and practice. Suzuki students also take group classes that build community and motivation. MIC is home to one of the region's leading Suzuki programs.
Traditional lessons introduce reading music early and work well for beginners, teens, and adults.
Not sure which style fits? When you inquire, tell us about your student and we'll recommend a path.
Make Music. Make Friends. Build Confidence.
At MIC, private lessons are just one part of nurturing the whole musician, alongside practice, music theory, ensembles, and performance. String students can play in chamber groups and perform in recitals at Nichols Concert Hall in downtown Evanston, where music becomes something you share.
Frequently Asked Questions
How young can my child start strings lessons?
Through our Suzuki program, children can begin as young as age 4. There's no upper age limit, and we teach many adult beginners.
Do I need my own instrument?
Yes. String instruments come in fractional sizes for growing children. Your teacher can help you find the right size and connect you with a good rental or purchase option.
How much do violin, viola, or cello lessons cost?
Tuition depends on a number of factors, including lesson length. When you inquire, ask about tuition and financial aid options.
When can we start private lessons?
Registration is open year-round, so you can begin at any point in the year.
Ready to start? Tell us a little about yourself or your student, and we'll match you with an excellent teacher.
