THE ACADEMY

The Academy of the Music Institute of Chicago, led by Director James Setapen, is a nationally recognized training center for gifted pre-college pianists and string players that provides a comprehensive music education for students who aspire to be professional musicians.

Located 30 minutes north of Chicago on the beautiful grounds of Reid Hall and Lily Reid Holt Memorial Chapel at Lake Forest College, the Academy is a musical community of faculty, staff and students who come together for an intensive 30-week Saturday program.

The Academy program includes private instruction, chamber music, orchestra, music theory, master classes, and a variety of performance opportunities. All Academy students are introduced to a broad range of teaching styles, likeminded peers, and artist faculty.

Because of the Academy’s small size (approximately 35 young musicians ages 13 to 19), the program provides each student individual attention and unparalleled support while nurturing and inspiring musical growth and fostering life-long friendships.