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Best Places For Guitar Lessons In Chicago

Magdalene Paniotte

For strummers who want to develop their knowledge of repertoire and technique, chord progression or rhythm patterns, these music schools are sure to peak the interest of students at all levels.

Musicianist
(Credit: musicinst.org)

Music Institute of Chicago
517 Greenbay Road
Wilmette, IL 60091
(847) 905-1500
www.musicinst.org

One of the top three music centers in the country today, the highly regarded Music Institute of Chicago offers lessons in guitar and all other instruments. The school also practices the Suzuki method, a teaching philosophy that says talent can be developed and nurtured in any aspiring musician, at any level. Formerly known as The Music Center of the North Shore, MIC was founded in 1931 by David and Dorothy Dushkin who were passionate about their work, endeavoring to impart a love of music to all children in their community. The MIC has expanded considerably over time and currently operates in seven Chicagoland locations.

Village Music Store
(Credit: villagemusicstore.com)

Village Music Store
645 Osterman Road
Deerfield, IL 60015
(847) 945-5321
www.villagemusicstore.com

Founded in 1963 by talented musician Bob Gand, The Village Music Store is a vibrant, homestyle teaching atmosphere for the guitar, piano, drums and other musical instruments. The shop carries a good selection of books and accessories, and also rents out instruments to students. This is a relaxing environment that allows people to unwind and browse while creating a wonderful sense of visiting an old friend. Village Music provides a place of refuge for sensitive musicians who feel the calling to play, but are aware of a need to conquer the fear of possible repercussions in deciding whether or not to take the plunge toward a musical career.

New Music School
(Credit: newmusicschool.com)

New Music School
310 S. Michigan Ave.
Chicago, IL 60604
(312) 612-1969
www.newmusicschool.com

An exciting and innovative curriculum of private, individualized instruction, the New Music School's focus is to elevate a student's experience of sound exploration by redefining preconceived notions about music in an unconstrained path to learning. Inspired by musicians from the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, the program is designed to release inhibition while instilling confidence through increased exposure to varying art forms in collaboration with participating performing arts organizations. The school offers lessons in guitar and all other instruments at its downtown location, at the student's home, or via satellite.

North Shore Music Institute
(Credit: northshoremusicinstitute.com)

North Shore Music Institute
400 Central Ave.
Northfield, IL 60093
(847) 441-4150
www.northshoremusicinstitute.com

Conveniently located in suburban Northfield, this is a great rehearsal space and training ground for aspiring musicians with dreams of stardom who feel ready to join a band, record an album or even break into the music business. Students of all ages interested in private or group lessons in guitar and other instruments are also more than welcome. The studio provides instruction in the technical aspects of music and is equipped with working professionals knowledgeable in traditional music theory, as well as seasoned performers who have had their taste of fame in the music circuit.

Old Town School of Folk Music
(Credit: oldtownschool.org)

Old Town School Of Folk Music
4544 N. Lincoln Ave.
Chicago, IL 60625
(773) 728-6000
www.oldtownschool.org

A nationally renowned venue and thriving teaching facility with two convenient locations in Chicago, the Old Town School of Folk Music specializes in guitar music lessons for both groups and private instruction. Founded in 1957, the recently expanded Lincoln Avenue location welcomes students at all levels and provides a casual, hands-on approach to strumming that makes learning how to play seem easy. The school offers extensive coursework designed to progressively develop a performer's musical ability and features an acoustically excellent, intimate concert space that has hosted many famous and talented artists over the years.

Magdalene Paniotte is from Chicago and very pleased to be a CBS Contributor. She has a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Theatre and has studied creative writing at the graduate level. Maggie enjoys composing articles and developing her voice as a freelance writer. Her work can also be found at Examiner.com.

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