Events for aspiring music majors: local, regional, and national

Music is a field that has been around for centuries and has always been a part of our daily lives. It ranges from classical to contemporary and is perfect for students interested in pursuing careers as musicians, music teachers, or composers.

If you’re a student already focusing on building a music package, you’ll likely be receiving guidance from your teacher or instructor. But if you’re just getting started, read on to see how you can begin with the smaller things and then build up to the more labor- and time-intensive, national events. For our sample city, we’re taking you to Chicago. 

Local level

Designed for beginners, these activities are easy to start and scale up according to the needs of the student or group. There are many extracurricular activities that you can participate in to strengthen your passion and skills in music.

• Join your school’s music club or ensemble

  If you're passionate about music, joining your school’s music club or ensemble is a great way to hone your skills and develop your love for music. You'll have the opportunity to work with other students and develop your abilities under the guidance of a music teacher.
  

• Participate in local music festivals

  Chicago has a vibrant music scene and plenty of local music festivals. The Chicago Jazz Festival, the Blues Festival, the World Music Festival, and the SummerDance festival are just a few examples. Local festivals can provide you with the opportunity to perform in front of an audience and to learn from other musicians.
  

• Volunteer at a local music venue

  Volunteering at a local music venue is an excellent way to get involved in the music scene in Chicago. You can work with the sound crew, stagehands, or even help promote events. You’ll get an up-close look at how shows are put together and how to make a career in the music industry.

Regional level 

Regional events are good in that you’re going to be familiar with the music culture and issues at a more personal level than larger national events while still experiencing competition in a more structured format than casual extracurricular activities. Here are some regional events happening in Chicago:

• Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra

  The Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra is one of the most prestigious youth orchestras in the country. Students from the Chicago area have the opportunity to audition for the orchestra and perform at venues such as Symphony Center and Orchestra Hall. The orchestra has several ensembles, including a string orchestra, symphony orchestra, and a jazz orchestra. Auditions are required.

  • Link: https://cyso.org

  • Various deadlines

  • Program fees range from $400 – $2,500 annually depending on which program/supplementals are chosen. *You can start a fundraiser to increase the scope of your involvement.
    

• Midwest Young Artists Conservatory

  The Midwest Young Artists Conservatory is a pre-college music program that offers a wide range of classes and ensembles for students in grades 3-12. Students can participate in orchestras, jazz ensembles, chamber groups, and choir, among other things. The conservatory also offers summer music camps and masterclasses. Auditions are not required for participation in a variety of summer camps and yearlong instruction. 

  • Link: https://mya.org

  • Various deadlines 

  • Program fees range from $900 – $1,454 for minimum 30 weeks of sessions depending on which program is chosen 

• Music Institute of Chicago

  The Music Institute of Chicago is a community music school that offers private lessons, group classes, and ensembles for students of all ages and skill levels. The school has several locations throughout the Chicago area and offers programs in classical, jazz, and contemporary music.

  • Link: https://www.musicinst.org/community-music-school

  • Program fees range from $750 – $2,000 for 17 weekly sessions

National level

If you're looking to take your music skills to the next level, then participating in national events can be a great way to gain exposure and recognition. Here are some national events happening in the music industry:

• Music For All National Festival

  The Music For All National Festival is one of the most prestigious music festivals in the country. It offers a wide range of opportunities for students of all ages and skill levels, including performances, masterclasses, and clinics. The festival includes concert bands, orchestras, and jazz ensembles from across the country.

  • Link: https://festival.musicforall.org/

  • Deadline for application/supporting materials June 5, 2023 / Chamber ensembles Sept. 15, 2023

  • Entry fee: $250

• National Association for Music Education All-National Honor Ensembles

  The National Association for Music Education All-National Honor Ensembles is a music education program that recognizes the top performing high school musicians in the country. The ensembles include the All-National Honor Band, All-National Honor Orchestra, All-National Jazz Band, and All-National Choir. Each ensemble has a rigorous audition process, and only the most talented students are selected. 

  • Link: https://nafme.org/programs/all-national-honor-ensembles/

  • Information to be released in early 2024