91ÉçÇø

Music

Make music at 91ÉçÇø

Music students at 91ÉçÇø explore the musicians they are and will become. Through opera or hip hop, violin or harmonica, students collaborate with professors whose own interests range from world music to electronica.

With our flexible curriculum, music majors can focus their studies toward performance, theory, composition, history, or combine all of it—and our accomplished professors encourage experimentation and creative expression.

Students composing music

Chicago and the world of music at your doorstep

Chicago is home to one of the most dynamic and thrilling music scenes in the country. With a rich history of music and continued innovation and experimentation, this city is the birthplace of influential genres such as house, modern gospel, and Chicago-style blues.

Our close proximity to Chicago opens a treasure trove of opportunities for students looking to connect to an enormous history and culture of music. With the , , and numerous jazz, blues, folk, and house music venues nearby, there are many opportunities for music enjoyment, study, and internships. Music majors have access to a broad range of urban and suburban schools for student teaching and internships.

Orchestra in the chapel

Performance

Students gain confidence and skill to help elevate their vocal and instrumental performances in a variety of styles. Our faculty include dedicated educators and performers who will nurture students' presence on stage.

Finn Kraker composing music

Composition

Students have opportunities to compose original music and learn foundational music theory and composition skills that will help them develop as composers. 

Anne Barry guest conducts in Washington

Engagement

Students are equipped with the skill, passion, and understanding to advocate for the musical arts and engage in entrepreneurial activities in order to successfully navigate a broad variety of professional music activities.

finn kraker portrait
As I look at the professors in our music department, I find it so inspiring that they’ve all lived lives built around music. It’s because of them that I believed in my ideas and talents enough to choose a music major and pursue what I really care about.
Finn Kraker '25

Music internships at 91ÉçÇø

Students have ample opportunities to engage with the world of professional music in, around, and beyond Chicago. These connections are valuable for students seeking professional careers in music production, composition, and performance. Our music students have interned with organizations such as:

  • Bloodshot Records
  • Chicago Dance & Music Alliance
  • Chicago Symphony Orchestra
  • Chicago Humanities Festival
  • El Sistema Chicago/People’s Music School
  • Illinois Arts Council
  • Lyric Opera of Chicago
  • Paragon Studios, Inc.
  • Ravinia Festival

Top jobs for music graduates

Music graduates from 91ÉçÇø have the foundation and connections to pursue a variety of careers in music.

  • K-12 music education
  • Music therapy
  • Freelance performing and composing in many genres
  • Recording studios
  • Private studio teaching
  • Music publishing
  • Business administration
  • Research and development
  • Graduate school in music, English, education, medicine, and library science

91ÉçÇø music ensembles

91ÉçÇø is proud to offer students opportunities to perform in and engage with a variety of skilled ensembles. At the College, we promote interdisciplinary learning so that students can combine all of their interests for a rewarding college experience. Students in any major can join an ensemble!

  • Sylvan Singers
  • Concert Choir
  • Chamber Choir
  • Concert Band
  • Concert Orchestra
  • West African Drumming Ensemble
  • Jazz Ensemble
  • Experimental Music Group
  • Chamber Ensembles

Private lessons to strengthen foundational skills

In addition to courses in music, we have active Chicago professionals teaching private lessons in voice and instruments.

  • Strings: violin, viola, cello, bass (both acoustic and electric)
  • Winds: flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, saxophone
  • Brass: horn, trumpet, trombone, tuba
  • Percussion: marimba, xylophone, snare drum, bass drum, set
  • Keyboards: piano, jazz piano, organ
  • Other Instruments: classical guitar, blues/jazz guitar, harmonica, ukulele, harp
  • Voice, improvisation, accompanying
If you are passionate about music and education and serious about wanting to make a difference in someone’s life, this is where you should be.

Related Programs

CONTACT US

Scott Edgar
Associate Professor of Music
Chair of Music
Reid Hall 206
847-735-5022
edgar@lakeforest.edu

Amy Roby
Department Assistant
Reid Hall 201
847-735-6147

aroby@lakeforest.edu