Academy of Movement & Music

- 605 Lake St, Oak Park, IL 60302

For over 50 years, the Academy of Movement & Music has been a celebrated cornerstone of arts education in Oak Park, Illinois. This is more than just a dance or music school; it is a community institution with a strong legacy and a reputation for excellence. It’s a place where children and adults alike can find inspiration and self-expression through the universal languages of movement and music. The mission of The Academy is to nurture each student's unique gifts and help them reach their full potential, regardless of their background or ability. The faculty rejoices in the progress made by each student, creating a warm, family-like culture that is evident from the moment you walk through the doors.

This is a school that upholds its legacy and reputation year after year. From the casual student who wants to dance for fun to the aspiring professional dancer, The Academy provides excellent instruction and a robust support system. Their commitment to technique and form is evident in every class, ensuring that students receive a high-quality education. The Academy is also known for its strong community values, offering a welcoming, inclusive, and compassionate environment. They are proudly LGBTQ+ friendly and a transgender safe space, demonstrating a deep commitment to making sure everyone feels valued and respected. This dedication to kindness and community, combined with their talented teachers, creates a magical environment where every student can feel at home.

The Academy of Movement & Music is conveniently located at 605 Lake Street in Oak Park, Illinois. Its central location makes it an accessible destination for families throughout the western suburbs of Chicago. The studio is committed to accessibility, ensuring that everyone can participate in their programs without difficulty. The facility features a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a wheelchair-accessible parking lot. This thoughtful design helps to create an inclusive environment for all students and their families. With on-site services, it is a convenient and practical choice for busy families. Additionally, the presence of amenities like gender-neutral restrooms further speaks to the school's commitment to creating a welcoming and safe space for all members of the community.

The Academy of Movement & Music offers a wide-ranging and comprehensive curriculum that caters to all ages and skill levels, with a unique blend of dance, music, and early childhood programs.

• Dance Classes: They provide an extensive dance program that includes Beginner's, Intermediate, and Advanced classes in a variety of styles. Offerings include Jazz, Hip Hop, and Modern Dance.
• Ballet Program: The ballet instruction is excellent and includes a full program from Beginning Ballet Classes to Advanced Training and private lessons. They also perform classical ballets, providing students with invaluable performance experience.
• Music Lessons: The Academy is also a music school, offering Music Lessons and Private Music Instruction for various instruments. Their Music Program is designed to foster a love for music in students of all ages.
• Early Childhood and Preschool Programs: The Academy offers a wonderful A.R.T.S. Preschool program with a curriculum focused on creative movement and music. They also have a Creative Movement Class and programs for early childhood.
• Gymnastics and Performing Arts: In addition to their dance and music offerings, the Academy also has a gymnastic school and provides a wide range of performing arts classes, allowing students to explore their creativity in many forms.
• Seasonal and Special Programs: They offer a Summer Program for keeping students engaged during the break, as well as an Intensive Program for dedicated dancers. The studio also hosts Special Events and has teacher training programs.

The Academy of Movement & Music stands out in the Chicago area for a number of compelling features and highlights that make it a truly exceptional place for arts education.

• Talented and Caring Teachers: The instructors are praised for being talented, kind, and gentle with students of all ages. They are mentors who care deeply about the well-being and progress of each student.
• Inclusive and Welcoming Community: The studio is known for its "family-like culture." It is a proud LGBTQ+ friendly space and a transgender safe space, making it a truly inclusive environment where everyone is celebrated.
• Holistic Arts Education: The unique combination of dance and music instruction under one roof provides a comprehensive arts education that helps students develop a wide range of skills. Their A.R.T.S. Preschool program is a testament to this holistic approach, blending academics with the arts.
• High-Quality Instruction: The school is known for its excellent ballet instruction and commitment to technique and form, which is a major draw for serious dancers. They provide wonderful support systems for all levels, from casual dancers to aspiring professionals.
• Performance Opportunities: The numerous performance opportunities, including being part of classical ballets and special events, provide students with invaluable experience and a chance to showcase their hard work.
• On-Site Amenities: The availability of on-site child care and gender-neutral restrooms makes The Academy a convenient and welcoming choice for families, especially those with multiple children.

For more information, class schedules, or to enroll in a program, you can contact the Academy of Movement & Music directly.

Address: 605 Lake St, Oak Park, IL 60302, USA

Phone: (708) 848-2329

When it comes to choosing an arts school for your family in the Oak Park area, the Academy of Movement & Music is an excellent choice for a multitude of reasons. What truly sets this institution apart is its unparalleled combination of professional-level instruction and a deeply rooted, compassionate community. The reputation and legacy of The Academy are built on more than just technique; they are built on a culture of kindness and genuine care for the students. The fact that older students mentor younger ones, and the teachers are praised for their kindness, is a powerful indicator of the family-like atmosphere. This is a place where your child can grow up feeling safe, supported, and celebrated.

Furthermore, the sheer breadth of their offerings is a major advantage. From the A.R.T.S. Preschool program that blends education with creativity, to advanced dance training and private music lessons, a family could find all their arts education needs met in one place. This convenience, combined with a truly inclusive and welcoming environment, makes it a top choice for a diverse and modern community. The commitment to being an LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender safe space shows that The Academy is not just an old institution, but a progressive and compassionate one. Ultimately, choosing the Academy of Movement & Music is an investment not just in a class or a skill, but in a community that will help your child develop into a well-rounded, confident, and kind individual, which is the most valuable outcome of all.

Academy of Movement & Music

605 Lake St, Oak Park, IL 60302, USA