Music for LIfe is supported in part by a grant from the Dr. Scholl Foundation.
Additional
support
provided by
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.