Peggy Wise launched the School in 1981 to fill a void in Chicago's education community. In the shadows of the Cabrini Green housing project, we began teaching 15 families of diverse cultural and economic backgrounds. Within two years, we established partnerships with nearby public schools to broaden our on-site student base and created tuition-free enrollment for low-income families. The fundamental goal of our work was, and continues to be, quality music education for children in a family-centered environment.

Inspired by Suzuki-Orff's innovative approach to arts education, Chicago Public Schools teachers and principals requested our help to develop strategies to bring music programs directly into their schools. They also enlisted our expertise to incorporate the arts into their core curriculum. As a result, Suzuki-Orff initiated Project IMAGE (Integrating Music/Movement Arts with General Education) in 1986. This program provides innovative, long-term arts education in schools that serve low-income populations. We subsequently developed Clap, Sing and READ!®, Baby STEPS® (Starting Together the Educational ProcesS), and Music LEAPS (Learning Explorers At the Public Schools). These initiatives, designed for younger children and their families, have developed into core programs for Suzuki-Orff.

We established a permanent home in 1994. Suzuki-Orff purchased and built out 7,500 square feet of space within a former furniture factory in Chicago’s West Town neighborhood. Our facility has provided the School with greater financial stability and the ability to expand on-site student capacity by 165%. Suzuki-Orff is working with 11 outreach partner schools this year. We are an active member of the Chicago Consortium of Community Music Schools. Last year, we participated in collaborative programming with the Consortium, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs, Fourth Presbyterian Church, and the National Guild of Community Schools of the Arts.

Cello, flute, guitar, piano, violin, viola, or voice lessons are arranged on an individual basis. Please contact our Registration Manager for more information.