The West Point School of Music was founded in 2011 but its roots extend for decades of music education.

The non-profit prevents juvenile violence and promotes academic and personal success among urban youth through quality in-school, after-school and out of school music instruction and performance programs in areas in Chicago that need it most.

Visit our Programs page to learn more about our offerings.

How To Help

Are you interested in supporting students in your community? Do you have a used instrument collecting dust that you would like to donate? Can you support the program financially in order to provide sustainability? Read more about all the ways you can help.

Hear Us Play

The students perform at public and private events. If you are interested in having a steel panband play at your event, find out more about how you can book the band.

Gifting Music to a New Generation

Do you remember when you first learned to play an instrument? It took a lot of practice and support from teachers, tutors, and parents. Help these student gain confidence by giving a gift that supports the arts.

Read more about our:

Leadership

Staff

About West Point School of Music

At West Point School of Music, we are dedicated to transforming the lives of urban youth in Chicago through comprehensive music instruction and performance opportunities. Our mission is to engage young individuals, fostering their artistic connection, social consciousness, and development into productive adults. 

Our Mission

Our  mission is to engage urban youth through music instruction and performance, cultivating artistically connected, socially conscious, productive adults. 

Our History

Founded in 2011, West Point School of Music has deep roots in music education that span decades. As a non-profit organization, we are committed to preventing juvenile violence and promoting academic and personal success among urban youth. We achieve this through quality in-school, after-school, and out-of-school music instruction and performance programs in the areas of Chicago that need it most. 

Our Programs

We offer a diverse range of programs tailored to meet the needs of our students:

  • School & Community Partnerships: Collaborating with schools and community organizations to bring music education directly to students.

  • After-School & Summer Programs: Providing structured environments where students can explore and develop their musical talents.

  • Epic Steel Orchestra: Our premier performing ensemble, offering students the opportunity to showcase their skills and gain performance experience. 

  • Workshops & Private Lessons: Personalized instruction to help students grow at their own pace.

Why Music Education Matters

Music education offers numerous benefits, including:

  • Improving the atmosphere for learning, helping students achieve in other academic subjects like math, science, and reading.

  • Keeping students engaged in school and less likely to drop out.

  • Developing critical and analytical thinking skills, fostering creative problem-solving, effective communication, and teamwork.

  • Helping students to express themselves in verbal and non-verbal ways.

  • Helping students to develop a high level of self-awareness and self-confidence. citeturn0search5

Get Involved

There are many ways you can support our mission:

  • Volunteering: We are looking for qualified individuals to assist with music instruction, youth assistance, and administration. If you are interested in helping, please contact us to request a volunteer application. citeturn0search3

  • School Expansion: If you are interested in starting the program at your school, please contact us about performances and classes.

  • Student Opportunities: Could your student benefit from an after-school program and learning to play an instrument? Contact us to see if there are any openings.

Contact Us

West Point School of Music
1233 W. 109th Place
Chicago, IL 60643
Phone: (773) 414-5933
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