News, Events, Awards & Achievements | Music Institute Chicago

Music Institute of Chicago faculty and students come from more than 80 Illinois communities, 40 Chicago zip codes, and multiple states outside of Illinois and countries around the world. Keep up with the latest news as well as student and faculty activities and accomplishments by following us on your preferred social media platform, or signing up for the news that matters to you.

Faculty Spotlight

The Lasting and Far Reaching Impact of Piano Study

Insights from MIC Piano Department Chair Elaine Felder

We spoke with Music Institute of Chicago’s Piano Department Chair Elaine Felder to explore her approach to unlocking student potential, the benefits of both early training and adult study, and why chamber music is one of the most powerful experiences a pianist can have.

Faculty Spotlight

Cultivating Curiosity Through Musical Exploration

Insights from Hana Marek, MIC Lake Forest Campus Director

There's a lot a musician can gain from stepping outside what they already know. We spoke with Lake Forest campus director Hana Marek about what it looks like to cultivate curiosity through music, why exploring across cultures matters, and how those habits can shape both better musicians and more thoughtful citizens.

Alumni Spotlight

Academy Spotlight: Ari Barack Fisher

Q&A with Academy Coordinator & Orchestra Manager Ari Barack Fisher

Meet Ari Barack Fisher: composer, violinist, and Academy Coordinator and Orchestra Manager at the Music Institute of Chicago. He started his own violin studies at MIC in 1996, and today he is back in the community supporting the next generation of students.

Faculty Spotlight

Life After Music School: What Young Musicians Should Know

Insights from MIC Cello Faculty Anita Graef

What should young musicians understand before pursuing college-level music study? Drawing from her experience as a performer, educator, and mentor, cello faculty member Anita Graef offers thoughtful guidance for students navigating the modern musical landscape.

Faculty Spotlight

30 Years Together Through Music

Celebrating Three Exceptional Educators at the Music Institute of Chicago

For more than 90 years, the Music Institute of Chicago (MIC) has been a place where music transforms lives through...

Faculty Spotlight

The Benefits of Early Childhood Music Classes

Insights from Musikgarten instructor Noralyn Baroja

We spoke with Noralyn Baroja, Musikgarten instructor at the Music Institute of Chicago with over 20 years of teaching experience, to learn more about the unique benefits of starting music early.