Sue Polutnik

Academy Executive Director
Vice President and Chief Operating Officer

"We believe the Academy is the Gold Standard for training high school string players and pianists."
- Sue Polutnik

How would you like to spend your Saturdays immersed in music with friends who love playing in an orchestra as much as you do?
To rehearse chamber music with national award-winning coaches?
To perform in master classes with distinguished teachers like Midori, Wu Han, and David Finckel?

The Academy at the Music Institute of Chicago promises all this and more. 

The Academy is nationally recognized as a top program for pre-college musicians and is dedicated to students with extraordinary talent. The rigorous curriculum is suited to musicians who plan to pursue conservatory training and a professional career in music. We aim to introduce students to a broad musical community, like-minded peers, and conservatory faculty members.

Since 2006, the Academy’s comprehensive training program for gifted pre-college students has provided piano and string musicians the best music education in preparation for conservatory admission. Students have attended the Academy from all corners of the country and from across the globe, including students from Costa Rica, Argentina, China, and Taiwan.

In addition to a robust curriculum that prepares students for the rigors of conservatory training, the Academy staff and faculty also provide insightful college guidance and letters of recommendation.

Students are provided performance opportunities throughout the year at philanthropic, civic, and community events. In addition, students are engaged in collaborative partnerships with organizations like the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, WFMT Radio, From the Top, Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, Steinway & Sons, Chicago Botanic Garden, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Harris Theater for Music and Dance.

Come join us on any Saturday to shadow a current student. Hear firsthand why our students love the Academy, why so many say, Saturday is their favorite day of the week. It might be the right music program for you too. 

Contact me today to begin your Academy journey!

Sue Polutnik
Academy Executive Director
spolutnik@musicinst.org
847.448.8311 

 

Academy Seniors