Old Town School of Folk Music

About Us

The Old Town School of Folk Music teaches and celebrates music and cultural expressions rooted in the traditions of diverse American and global communities. Founded in 1957, the Old Town School of Folk Music provides a wide range of music, dance, theater, and visual arts classes for all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. Over 700 accredited class offerings, private lessons, and workshops span a wide range of artistic genres.

The School's critically acclaimed concerts showcase some of the finest and most diverse local and touring artists in our intimate and acoustically superb hall. Ticket prices remain among the most affordable in the city and special events such as this Summer's Square Roots festival, World Music Wednesdays and Global Dance Party make music accessible to all with free and low-priced programs.

The Old Town School owns and operates two facilities situated in Lincoln Square and one in Lincoln Park that include 425-seat and 150-seat concert halls, more than 50 classrooms, a music stores, cafe, and resource center. The School's popular Wiggleworms classes are also held in six satellite locations.

The School opened its newest facility in January 2012 directly across the street from its headquarters in Lincoln Square.