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Old Town School of Folk Music
Categories: Arts & Entertainment Performing Arts Shopping Musical Instruments & Teachers Performing Arts, Musical Instruments & Teachers [Edit]
909 W Armitage Ave(between Bissell St & Fremont St)
Chicago, IL 60614
Neighborhoods: Lincoln Park, DePaul
(773) 728-6000
- Nearest Transit:
-
Armitage (Brown Line, Purple Line)
Fullerton (Brown Line, Purple Line, Red Line)
- Hours:
Mon-Thu 9 am - 10 pm
Fri-Sun 9 am - 5 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
42 reviews for Old Town School of Folk Music
Review Highlights
"I'm taking guitar lessons at the Armitage shop, but wait..."
(in 5 reviews)
"Also, heard they have great kids classes."
(in 25 reviews)
"The staff at the Different Strummer store is very helpful."
(in 4 reviews)
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42 reviews in English
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Review from Carlo B.
Chicago, IL
9/5/2011
(This is for the Armitage location)
They make learning music fun and easy to do. You can easily get caught in how they get you to start playing. My teachers took something that at first look like "Oh, wow. we're playing this" to "Yeah, I think we can play this in front of people without feeling totally embarassed."
The instructors were very attentive, patient, and helpful. They were willing to put in input (both with(out) music) of what we were doing and the things that needed to be worked on to rock. I liked that my instructors played different styles and methods, so not one is the same as the other. They also encouraged you to be very engaging of what the school has to offer.
Classes were busy during the actual school year (winter, fall, spring) so it can get crowded, but it does get empty when the actual school year (summer) goes out and it does get "boring" during graduation. Other classes such as 6 String Social were great and usually isn't empty and is usually fun, especially if you don't know what you're doing.
I usually take either the train or walk to the school. But if I did have to drive there, I usually have to gameplan. Parking is plenty on Armitage but metered. Side streets require permits, but there are a few places to get away with stealing a spot (LPHS if you're lucky). -
Review from Edward E.
Chicago, IL
6/26/2011
This place is unreal. Customer service, bar none. Extremely helpful and friendly staff. They communicate effectively and take the time to answer your questions, Their store is small, but they are extremely knowledgeable and friendly. They take the time to answer your questions and give sound advice. And their prices are great to reasonable.
I have not taken a class as of yet, but will redo my review when i do. -
Review from Roseann M.
Chicago, IL
3/22/2011
This place is a national treasure. As far as I've seen, there is no place like it in the entire U.S.A.
Why do I say so? And why do I give the rare (for me, at least) 5-stars that I reserve only for something that is superlative?
I first attended a concert at Old Town School in 1979. I started taking classes there, on and off through the years, in the 1980's.
OTS is devoted to presenting traditional, folk, and contemporary music, and making it all available to everyone.
The World Music Wednesday's ask for a $5.00 donation - or, if you can't pay, it's free. I've seen people go in without paying, and I've seen people donate $20.00. You give what you can.
In the past year, the concerts I attended at World Music Wednesday include Finnish, salsa, Hungarian folk, Ladino, Irish, samba, and flamenco. One series of concerts is Afro-Pop, focusing on different types of African music, modern and traditional. There is a series called LaPena, focusing on Latino music from all over the world. If you want to hear different kinds of music, it's all here for you.
I've paid for concerts that included American roots (bluegrass, blues, gospel, 60's); Celtic (Altan, Lunasa, Celtic fiddlers, Capercaillie, Mary Jane Lemond), singer-songwriters (Dougie McLean, Eric Bogle, James Keelahan), European (Las Muscagnas, Bulgari, Varttina, Lila Downs), and more (Tuvan throat singing, Brazilan samba, traditional Indian music from Rajasthan, Thai jazz), and more than I can remember.
I've taken group and private lessons (fiddle, singing, clog dancing, guitar, tin whistle), and had a blast.
If money is an issue, scholarships are available for music instruction. A couple years ago, the social service organization where I worked had an intern from Germany. He made crap money from us. He went to Old Town School, and they gave him a scholarship to study guitar the whole year he was in town, doing his service. That was a great thing for him.
The staff at the Different Strummer store is very helpful. When I started fiddle classes, my old fiddle was out of tune, and I just couldn't get it tuned right. I dropped in at Different Strummer and asked a staff member for help. He had it right in 5 minutes.
There is a small cafe on the first floor where you can get snacks and drinks, including alcoholic beverages.
If there is any problematic issue with Old Town School, it may be parking. There is a pay lot across the street, and another one next to the Western Brown Line stop. Many of the side streets have free parking, but they get awfully full when there's a popular concert. -
Review from Patrick B.
Palo Alto, CA
4/14/2011
Great classes and taught in a way that from day one you learn some chords and play a basic song. Very friendly group and the free "second half" as well as "third half" provides lots of opportunities for practice and fun.
I had tried solo guitar lessons to get started with guitar and it never really got me there, but the group teaching style at Old Town is really conducive to getting you playing...and that is the most important step.
You can park on the street, but right next to the Armitage stop on the brown line so public transportation is an option. -
Review from Olivia S.
Oak Park, IL
10/13/2010
This is one of the best things I have done with my toddler, EVER. I'm from San Francisco, and when I moved to Chicago everyone said I had to take my children here for the Wiggleworms classes. So far, we have taken classes from Dave (sings like Jeff Tweedy!) & Nathan (super sweet & great guitarist)-- both a GREAT with the kids.
I teared up the first class, just watching the little brains & souls of these toddlers being touched by the music. Seriously, this place is well organized, with nice simple classrooms, and most importantly -- excellent teachers. Do not waste your time elsewhere, this is a Chicago gem. -
Review from Brenda H.
Chicago, IL
7/24/2010
I'm on my fifth week in Guitar I and, as I type, my finger tips are in so much pain!! Every time I finish a class (an hour and twenty minutes long), I gain a little confidence. I'm glad my teacher is encouraging and always helps us out during the jam sessions after class (half-hour long).
The class is small, 5-6 students, and it allows us to have one-on-one instruction at times. I would strongly encourage future students to buy the $15 book they sell because even if your teacher doesn't use it in class, other teachers use it during jam sessions.
The building is well ventilated and I've never had to worry about parking because I take the Brown Line--it's a block away. There is an ice cream place across the street, which makes my friend and I look forward to every class.
They have so many classes, I sometimes hear the singers or the salsa dancers above... I wish I could take them all!!!! -
Review from natalie P.
Chicago, IL
11/8/2011
My daughter has taken Wiggleworms for a year now with Susanna and Dave. Both are great. The classes are very fun!
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Review from Amaliya L.
Chicago, IL
7/2/2009
I somehow spaced planning summer activities for my little one because of his school and soccer schedule. I was not able to sign him up for summer camp due to the fact that registration had ended and the timing conflicted with his school schedule. Truth be told, neither one of us are any good at activities before 11am. He takes after me; we like to dilly dally and slowly greet the day. It seems as if most camps and classes for preschoolers are scheduled for Christ O' Clock in the morning.
He has taken a real interest in art. I wanted to find a class that would be stimulating and exciting for him. He has outgrown Bubbles and Gymboree. I really didn't want to put him in a simple finger painting class.
The art classes offered at Old Town are phenomenal. The price is fairly reasonable for 8 weeks. He adores his art teacher, Miss Laura. I appreciate her teaching methods. She starts the class off by reading them a story. The projects are based on how they interpreted the story. She also incorporates music into the activities. I am ecstatic to say that the projects that he has produced are the things that I am proud to display, not mish mash. The art projects reflect their development as the weeks progress. He just finished Primary Colors and has just started Secondary Colors. He looks forward to his art class every week.
We took the first session with Xtie and her little one. It gave all of us a chance to hang out and spend time together. I absolutely love the shops and the park nearby. I highly recommend enrolling at Old Town. It is well worth the money.
Things to note...I'm perpetually late. After starting on the wrong foot, I know now that when a class starts..that's when we need to be there..not 5, not 10, or 15 minutes later. I'm awful at this. I also recommend allowing yourself 20 minutes before class begins for parking and using the restrooms before class starts. -
Review from Alice S.
Chicago, IL
3/17/2007
I brought both of my children here years ago for Wiggleworms and Orff Schulwerk classes. The teachers were all wonderful, and my kids benefited greatly from interacting via music. Although my son spent a good deal of time trying to "escape" from the room, and my daughter seemed to want to dance more than clap along, both of them would sing the songs to me and themselves later. It made us all very happy!
Both of my children are very bright and enjoy music to this day. Early exposure to music, I believe, has been a key factor in their development. Thank you, Old Town School of Folk Music, for being such an important and positive part of them! -
Review from Jessie B.
Chicago, IL
1/12/2009
I am going to totally be honest here...I have commitment issues.
When it comes to putting a lot of time, effort, blood, sweat & tears--I tend to back out real fast. Well usually almost anything. See friends, I have this list of things I want to do before I am 40 years old. Naturally, learning how to play the guitar is on it. (A life list wouldn't be quite a life list if guitar playing wasn't on it!)
Anyways, I was really nervous about taking guitar lessons, simply because my youngest brother has been playing for years & tried to teach me a few things--well basically--I sucked. Big time. So I took a deep breath & signed up for classes at the Old Town School of Folk Music.
After talking to the people at the front desk--they had me convinced that I would be able to play a song after only one lesson! They even promised! So what is the harm in taking a chance.
Boy oh boy! Am I glad I did! I've been taking lessons since early August of 2008, and I am now fully addicted to playing my guitar. Thanks to my wonderful teacher Jason, my life is never going to be the same. I am actually onto Guitar 2! After graduating Guitar 1, Guitar 1 Rep--I feel like a professional. Every single person I've met has been great! All the teachers are super patient while you are learning new chords, strums, songs, lyrics & notes.
I cannot stress this enough--if you are looking to have fun & want to learn how to play any instrument take group lessons at Old Town! You won't regret it! -
Review from PATRICIA A.
Chicago, IL
5/1/2011
LOVE Old Town School...I've taken the whole guitar series, took flamenco, ballet, tap, hip hop, african dance, a little african djembe drum. This is the BEST place to learn anything. I had tried taking guitar lessons before but it never seemed to stick. They make all their classes fun, funny, and just plain awesome. Steve Levitt, Laura Doherty and the lead singer of Unibrow (I'm forgetting his name now) are awesome teachers. So many of my friends have taken the Guitar Series as well. I can think of at least 15 friends off the top of my head. Become a member too, you get great discounts and support a great cause...Rock On!
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Review from K W.
Chicago, IL
5/5/2011
Love this place! I have been taking my children here for classes for six years! The music classes are wonderful. All of the teachers are so talented! My children love the classes and they are even enjoyable for the parents because the teachers are cool!
The art classes for children are great too! And..they have amazing concerts! I am a huge fan! -
Review from Beth P.
Chicago, IL
4/29/2009
Old town has a special place in my heart.
Singing has always been my favorite thing ever, but rarely get a chance to sing, especially with others, so I was thrilled to find Old Town School of Folk Music.
I signed up for an 8 week group vocal class, and really liked it. Our teacher, Carol, was quirky, sweet, and had great tips to get the sound you want. There was a relaxed, non-competitive learning environment that really felt like a community. Every week, when I walked into the door (of the Lincoln Square location) I automatically felt great- maybe it's the sound combination of five jam sessions in the lobby, or maybe it's something in the air.
Since it's so affordable, I'm signing up for another class to get my meager guitar skills in gear... while I'm at it, ukulele too! -
Review from Kathryn M.
Chicago, IL
2/14/2008
It's been almost seven years since I have been part of any organized music ensemble, so I was fairly nervous to take on the guitar. But along with the company of a willing friend, Old Town School made me realize just how much I missed playing music! Tuesday's are now the best night of my week!
Old Town school gets you playing songs after just your first class, which keeps you wanting more. I learned as a first time student in Guitar 1 that young, old, musically inclined or not, it doesn't matter - everyone just has fun! Tuesday night sessions culminate with all the classes getting together for "second half", and I highly recommend sticking around. Even if you can only pick out a few chords, it's such a good time, and it's the best way to learn (or just listen - some of these instructors are truly amazing).
The staff are quirky and helpful, and if you choose, you can BYOB during class at the Armitage location, or buy a beer at the concession counter at the Lincoln Avenue spot. You may not get a lot of direction on actual technique at the beginning (like how to read music), but as you progress, so does the instruction.
No matter how stressful my day has been, I always leave Old Town feeling energized. As I approach the end of Guitar 1 Repertoire, my second 8-week session, I'm beginning to feel a little more "folk-rock goddess", and a little less "campfire sing along."
Although to be honest, I'd be fine with either one. -
Review from Ellen M.
11/14/2005
I took lessons and attended concents a la OTSFM at the original Armitage location for....damn, really long time. My parents used to catch concerts here when they dated in the 60s. I'll have to find a photo, they were so hip. In the late 80s I took guitar lessons from Muriel Anderson and it was transformative.
They have a lot to offer in the way of classes and live music for all ages. Group or individual lessons, many instruments, piano, vocal, etc.
It's cliche but I'll say it anyway. "An institution."Listed in: Rocking live
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Review from Mo D.
Wheaton, IL
12/6/2009
I drove 40 miles into the city twice a week to take classes here; that should tell you something! Eventually, the driving took its toll on me, but I would love to go back.
I took a group singing class and two group guitar classes, and I had an absolute blast at all of these classes. The instructors were super cool, friendly, slight hippie folksie edge to them, and were extremely effective in making everyone in the class feel like they had potential (even if they didn't. I was not one of those, btw. Hm... at least I don't think so...)
There's people playing guitar in the hallways together, singing in three part harmony, and drinking beer. People dancing in the side rooms, etc. It's like a big ol' outdoor music festival there, all the time, except it's inside. The building is old and awesome-looking, and although some of the rooms are too small or too hot or too cold, I think it gives it atmosphere.
They have free jam sessions for any instruments to get a chance to play together. There's also an amazing selection of ensembles you can join (these for pay), such as the Beatles, the Grateful Dead, Bob Dylan, women of Rock, etc. You get together with all instruments and voices and you can play together, and you perform the last week. Excellent stuff.
I have not been to any of their concerts or outdoor stuff, so I can't comment on those, but have heard wonderful things about them. The auditorium is very nice in an old-school sort of way. Great atmosphere.
The prices are wonderful and totally made up for the driving distance, at least to me.
There's a cute little cafe inside that serves alcohol, interesting non-alcoholic ethnic beverages, and some normal and somewhat hippie / vegan / granola snacks as well (think falafel). People bring their drinks in to classes with them.
The only drawback to this place, and it doesn't even knock at star off my rating, is the severe parking issue. I'd have to schedule myself for the latest classes possible, so that I could get a meter because I couldn't get into the parking lot to save my life. Sometimes, I'd have to get there 45 minutes early just to wander around side streets looking for parking. Eventually, I learned to go several streets north and just walk 3/4 of a mile. I needed a huge baggie of change, too, for the meters. But those of you who live in the city should not have this problem at all, because it's situated somewhere near the el.
Highly recommended for great prices, fun classes, and unbeatable atmosphere.Listed in: I'm a hipster...no, a…
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Review from Sandra B.
Chicago, IL
12/6/2008
This school provides another reason why Chicago is a GREAT place to live. CPS teachers get a discount and if you signup early there's another $15 discount. That's $140 for one 1.5 hour lesson/week for 8 weeks! DEAL! You can rent a guitar for $55/8-week course and ask about how that rental goes towards purchasing the instrument. Great group of teachers who'r professional musicians working in the scene today. Drink whilst you da Capo! Meet at The Store after strumming with your new buddies! See, it's trickle-down economics...so, it's even Obama-approved!
I'm taking guitar lessons at the Armitage shop, but wait, look at your options folks:
Accordion Autoharp Banjo Bass Cello Dobro Dulcimer Fiddle Flute Guitar Harmonica Mandolin Oud Percussion 'Ukulele Voice Bluegrass Blues Celtic Dance Ensembles Jazz Performance Production Rock Songwriting Theater Theory
DO IT! Become a member. MAKE the time! The whole city will benefit from your patronage.....even in the way you'll (YULE!) relate to friends, your kids and professional collaboratORS. Improve your quality of life. Love harder. I've heard a person doubles production of sexi-pheromones when taking lessons at OT; uh huh - heard that. Get out of the house baby! Everyone should be involved in producing music in some capacity. Think: Butterfly Affect, Karma....even.
An EXcellent Xmas gift too. The glove fits! Get your spouse outta the house! Sign up your spawn for after-school! -
Review from Xav V.
5/30/2008
Note: I work for Old Town School so this a partially biased review
I adore Old Town School for many reasons. They bring in some great and sometimes obscure musicians for concerts. There is a ton of different types of classes here that you won't find anywhere else. At least not all offered under the same roof. Classes start as young as newborns and go up to just before you're about to croak.
Both locations have their perks however I prefer Armitage over the Lincoln location. It's more cozy and I feel like I meet many more people here. The dance studio is on the smaller size, but has tons of natural light, a decent sound system, and the floor doesn't aggravate my shin splits like the studios at Lincoln.
As an employee I can tell you we're well payed with benefits and are given a lot of creative freedom. It really is a great gig and a wonderful place. -
Review from kat m.
Cook, IL
8/5/2009
I am now in touch with my inner musician! I have never had a great passion to play music just an amazing appreciation for it. I signed up about eight weeks ago for guitar one. First I must say how welcoming, warm, and supportive the staff and student are at Old Town School. Everyone here can remember when they first started out and will help you with any questions yo have from chords to tunning. I was also lucky enough to get financial aid to attend, all I had left was to rent a guitar from the music shoppe.
This school is a super fun outlet for creative energy. Best choice all year! -
Review from Diana P.
1/11/2010
I signed up my son when he was 4 months for the Lullabies class in LP and we had a great time. There wasn't anything fancy about this place, just a good teacher who sang songs and played the guitar. I'd prefer more traditional songs but this was a great way to get out and meet new moms who were in the same boat as me (needing an excuse to get out of the house). We are now signed up for Wiggleworms and what I love about this school is that the instructors are extremely talented.
We've done classes at Bubbles, which I liked too. That place was more "kid friendly" I'd have to say. Lots of colorful artwork, huge room, toys came out, etc.
Old Town School of Folk Music is a "get down to business" type of place. You come for the music, no frills.
Very friendly staff and great music books and cd's sold in the store downstairs.
NOTE: this place DOES NOT have an elevator so keep that in mind when bringing your little one. Most moms leave their strollers downstairs but I never felt comfortable doing it so I brought my baby bjorn with. -
Review from David K.
Chicago, IL
5/6/2011 1 Check-in Here
What a great place. Very friendly environment and highly conducive for learning. Big open spaces eliminate the claustophobic feeling you get in the small rooms and tight hallways we've experienced in other music schools.
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Review from Alex R.
Chicago, IL
1/27/2009
My friend (Ben H) was taking Ukulele classes at the Lincoln Square location and was raving about the level of awesomeness of his class, and how happy he was with the whole experience. So naturally, I signed up -- for beginner guitar lessons at the Old Town location, which is closer to my home, and I could not be happier. The staff is friendly and wonderful in every way, and the teaching method basically amounts to -- get this -- PLAYING GUITAR in a group setting. Turns out that you can learn a new instrument by playing it! Who would have thought?!? Even after the first lesson you come away with a song or two under your belt.
The "Different Strummer" music store inside is awesome as well. Knowledgeable, friendly employees help you with every question. If they don't have something at one store, they can transfer it from the bigger Lincoln Square location -- a great service.
Honestly, if I could give Old Town School of Folk Music 6 stars, I would. It's just that kind of place. -
Review from Rachel H.
5/31/2009
Having never taken a class here, mainly because I have the musical talent of a dying lobster's screams, I can't give a full 5 stars, but I did enjoy the performance I saw with my pal, and I had high standards given our roadside performance witnessed at dinner just prior.
Bob Dylan birthday tribute concert was replete with good tunes, a little improv stand-up from the performers, and cackling ridiculousness from the peanut gallery (i.e. us).
Even the nosebleed seats are not bad, they're comfy, and you can knock back a Dead Guy while lovingly heckling your friendly performers.
Watch out for the man in the vest. -
Review from Kate M.
Chicago, IL
2/9/2009
Most classes at Old Town School are amazing. I've taken guitar, and they have an amazing guitar faculty. I took musical saw and had a blast with that. I still play it, much to the chagrin of my cat. I also took their totally fun musical theatre class. It fulfilled every high school fantasy I had of being the lead in Brigadoon. These classes were terrific.
I also go to their store, Different Strummer, whenever I need an instrument restrung or fixed. The people there are knowledgeable. I bought the most gorgeous djembe drum from Different Strummer. I've also bought ukulele music there. You never know what they'll have there.
The concerts are intimate affairs, even when the house is sold out, and the acoustics are great. Can't recommend them highly enough,
BUT, the voice class I took at Old Town School sucked! The woman who taught the class I had was kind of a prima donna. Once, while she was talking, I could not suppress a cough. It was just a little cough, not a big deal, and she basically chewed me out in front of the whole class for coughing. Then she laid down the law, NO COUGHING WHILE SHE WAS SPEAKING! She also seemed to favor the men in the class. She also wanted to know your astrological sign (who gives a rat's ass what my sign is?) and what song you thought you couldn't sing. I answered that I could sing ANY song, I just maybe couldn't sing any song WELL. She was definitely annoyed by my comment. Isn't that a dumb thing to be put on someone's shit list for? Anyway, after the coughing incident, I decided I had better ways to spend my Sundays. What a nut. -
Review from Tony M.
12/10/2010
After 15 years of neglecting my impulse purchase Banjo I am taking Bluegrass Banjo lessons at OTSFM. The class sizes are not too large and the cost for an 8 week course is reasonable. The parking situation at the Armitage location is not great, but I take CTA rail (Brown Line) and it drops me off about 1/2 a block away! The instructors are great. I'm sorry I didn't do this years ago. My Banjo is soooo happy!
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Review from Stan S.
Round Lake Beach, IL
7/20/2005
This is one of the places that makes Chicago the unique place that it is. This Chicago institution has been teaching kids and adults to sing and play guitar for 30+ years. In the old place on Armitage, the performance hall was called Broonzy hall, named after Big Bill Broonzy, the great blues singer who I had the priviledge of knowing as a child.
I was raised on folk music, and thank the good folks at this place for helping to keep it alive. On the radio, the program called "The Midnight Special", broadcast on Saturday nights on WFMT, does the same work. I also listen to WDCB, 90.9 out of the College of DuPage for their folk music programming. Too bad WBEZ doesn't play more!
Note: for some reason, the old address of the school is listed. Now they are up on Lincoln Ave. but you already knew that, right? -
Review from Marc D.
Chicago, IL
7/25/2009
Let's face it, you just did some cleaning and you saw that guitar (or whatever instrument you have - they teach it all) collecting dust that "would be cool to play someday" and are considering lessons (again). You're on the fence about whether or not to do it so this review is an emphatic shove off the fence onto the "DO IT" side!
As soon as I started telling people I was taking guitar lessons, their next question was always "At the Old Town School?". I didn't realize at first that OTSFM carries a legacy and reputation that make it such a well-known and respected Chicago institution. It's one of those places that makes Chicago Chicago. I signed up at Old Town less than a year after my move here to Chi-town. Forget the driver license and bank account, it was OTSFM with its open arms and unpretentious vibe that welcomed me to class and by doing so, inaugurated me into Chicago citizenship.
I started in March with Guitar 1 and am now working through Guitar 2. I'm no Joe Satriani but I have practiced regularly and seen improvement throughout my journey so far. My instructor, Michael O'Toole is GREAT. He is able to present concepts, skills and technique in a way that allows you to easily understand and master (with practice of course) without over-thinking or over-teaching. Guitar is not an instrument for those who crave instant gratification but Michael teaches their curriculum in a way that has you playing and singing songs on your first lesson! Those with some music in their background like myself (a few years of piano as a kid) will not feel patronized and those with no musical knowledge whatsoever will not be intimidated. I have had the pleasure of meeting many other instructors and can't wait to work with all of them! Also, we are always welcome to bring beers to share at class! I brew my own so I have a group of willing tasters once a week.
DO IT. DO IT. DO IT. You can conduct all business with them online through their website. (Old TOWN - not old fashioned) It's easy and by far the best money I've spent in Chicago. Group lessons are very reasonably priced and people are not rejected for financial reasons. I heart Old Town and plan to take as many lessons as I can. If I were rich, I'd be a benefactor. I can't say enough about OTSFM. See for yourself. -
Review from Bonnie B.
Chicago, IL
4/1/2009
Awww, this is where I learned to play guitar after I first moved to Chicago! I had a great time in Dan F's class. That guy is hilarious and talented and gave us cool songs to learn. After a long stressful day at the office, I could not help but smile and laugh as all the classes got together at the end of each night for a giant jam session.
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Review from David P.
Chicago, IL
4/29/2007
My new favorite place in Chicago. I take guitar there and it's a total blast...it's a Chicago "institution" without feeling sanitized and definitely not boring. Lots of character and tons of course and (often free) concert selections to choose from. The "second half" after every class where everyone jams in the auditorium is the best. You can learn an instrument faster by taking private lessons, but it's not as fun as taking it in a group at the old town school.
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Review from Elaine H.
Chicago, IL
7/10/2008
The school, with its wide variety of courses offered, is an incredible resource for the community. This review pertains specifically to the bhangra dance classes taught by Shamila Khetarpal.
Shamila is a great dancer, no question (search YouTube for "bhangra shamila" to see videos of her classes and performances). Moreover, she's a wonderful teacher. She's bubbly, warm, and energetic, and she's a patient instructor who explains steps carefully and makes sure everyone "gets" it. She also throws in interesting bits of information and expertise about the history and background of the dance, and every week tells students about local events where they can dance bhangra or see bhangra performances. Most of all, she makes the classes both high-energy and low-pressure- who knew a class in Indian folk dancing could be so unintimidating to newbies?? For all you seasoned dancers, don't worry, it's still plenty challenging as well. I don'tt there are many cities with classes offered expert teachers of authentic bhangra dance (in contrast to somewhat more common Bollywood-flavored aerobics classes) so this is a real opportunity for Chicago dancers and wannabe dancers!
The classes are offered at two levels, one for beginners and one for students with bhangra experience. They are both crazy fun and a great workout! The music and movements are joyous and I've heard more than one student leave class saying they wish they had an Indian wedding to go to so they could dance there.
A couple of cautionary tidbits--the classes fill fast, especially the beginner level, so register early to get your slot! Also, the dance studio, which is pretty well equipped with sprung floors (to help prevent injury and joint stress) and mirrors, is NOT air-conditioned. Be prepared to sweat during the warmer months! -
Review from theresa k.
Chicago, IL
4/9/2007
The absolute best! Most of the teachers are working musicians and they offer group classes which are much cheaper and I find better for learning than private tutoring.
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Review from Adam G.
Chicago, IL
5/29/2008
Good People, Good Music, Good Beer, and you actually learn how to play guitar. Old Town is the best place to learn musical instruments in the city period . The group classes are where it's at you just love going to class each week and feel motivated to practice and actually learn. I've tried to learn guitar before and could motivate myself until my wife bought me some lessons at Old Town. I learned and am still learning. If you ever wanted to learn an instrument, Just do it! Also, everyone brings beer to class so you get drunk and play. Also, heard they have great kids classes.
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Review from Robert L.
Los Angeles, CA
8/31/2005
Lots of different music classes are offered here. Some famous and semi-famous musicians have attended here. A couple of them now teach classes here. Their reputation for excellence has help them grow thru-out the years so much so that they now have another facility on Lincoln near Wilson.
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Review from nick t.
Chicago, IL
2/5/2010
This place is great! The whole school has a good message and an elclectic group of teachers. However, its hard to find someone that fits you best. I took guitar lessons here over the summer and was not that impressed. I learned though!
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Review from Me, Myself and I.
Chicago, IL
1/27/2006
I like Old Town School of Folk Music's Lincoln Ave Campus (On Lincoln Avenue in Lincoln Square) much better than this cramped location. However, the teachers are all great and the classes are very cheap for the high class instruction they provide....
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Review from mike b.
Western Springs, IL
7/28/2008
I've been teaching at the school since 82. I took lessons there in 1963. 'nuff said.
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Review from Liliana S.
Chicago, IL
10/4/2005
Old Town is a great place to see some talented musicians or to learn how to play an instrument. They have classes for all ages and the teachers are really nice. This location is more accessible to me, but there is also another on Lincoln. I love their free concerts.
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Review from Travis P.
Chicago, IL
7/3/2006
I've been taking guitar lessons at this place for about a year now, going through their 1 through 4 curriculum (actually I broke off after 3 and took Fingerboard Theory at the Lincoln Square location). The staff is fantastic: enthusiastic about music, friendly and outgoing. If you're looking for a friendly environment to grow your music skills, this is the place to go. I continually look forward to my next upcoming class.
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Review from Andrew M.
Chicago, IL
7/13/2005 2 photos
When I was four years old, I decided I wanted to take violin lessons and I sucked so bad that my mom made me quit. Of course, being the encouraging mother that she is, she suggested that I try a different instrument; I said guitar. Now, some 18 years later, thanks to Old Town School of Folk Music, I'm still playing guitar and going strong. The faculty here is terrific and the store, A Different Strummer, offers all the supplies you need. If you want to learn how play guitar, there is no better place.
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Review from K R.
Chicago, IL
1/29/2009
I took private flute lessons for a while. Very nice. Little weird at first listening to the sounds of the singer or piano player in the room next door, but the old building had enough charm to get me over myself. My instructor "Laura" was excellent. I'll do it again...maybe some more flute or maybe a little piano...
