Share your love of classical music with your children and grandchildren

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Music for Life?
Music for Life is a collaborative effort of Ars Viva and the Music Institute of Chicago. It is based on the desire to introduce children to live classical music performances and, at the same time, to provide stimulating music education for them. It also allows parents to enjoy classical music concerts knowing that their children are simultaneously learning about the same music.

What ages do you accept?
Our target ages are from 4 to 10. Exceptions may be made in consultation with the teachers and parents and based on the age distribution of each class.

How do I sign up?
You need to call the box office at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie at 847 673-6300. Tell the box office personnel how many adult tickets you need and that you are participating in Music for Life. They will seat you in the balcony with the other Music for Life families. You will pay for the adult ticket(s) and the children’s ticket(s) will be complimentary. You will need to give the box office your child’s name and age.

May I sign up for only one concert?
Yes, you may register for single concerts as long as space is available. However, priority will be given to full season subscribers.

Can I bring my grandchildren?
By all means!

How much does it cost?
The concert and educational program is free for the children. Parents (or grandparents) should purchase regular priced tickets (or subscriptions) for themselves.

Can I bring one of my child’s friends along with us?
Yes, as long as the child-to-parent ratio does not go beyond reasonable limits. Because the program is free to the children, the only revenue coming to Ars Viva is in the form of ticket sales for the parents.

How long does it last?
The concerts are usually about two hours. The children hear the first 15 minutes or so before going to their classrooms.

When should I arrive at the concert?
It is suggested that you arrive at least 15 minutes before the concert begins in order to locate the classroom before taking your seats in the auditorium.

Will someone take my child from the concert hall after the first piece to the classroom?
Yes, staff members from the Music Institute of Chicago will escort the children from the concert hall to the classrooms.

What if my child needs to go to the restroom during the class?
Teacher’s aides are available to take children to the restroom and bring them back.

Will I be notified of any emergency during the concert?
Yes, we will have a seating list of where all the parents are sitting. If we need to get in touch with you, we will send someone into the concert for you.

Can I check on my child at intermission?
Yes, if you wish, you may share in some refreshments with your child during intermission.

Does my child need to dress up for the concert?
his is an individual matter and completely up to each family. During the music classes the children will be sitting on the floor and may do some movement activities so their clothing should be appropriate for those activities.

Will the children have refreshments?
We will provide juice boxes, packaged fruit and raisins. If your child has any food allergies, please let us know ahead of time so we can provide appropriate snacks.

What do I do after the concert is over?
Our teachers will wait for you to pick up your child from the classroom after the concert is over. For security, your child will be asked to identify you before being released to go.

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