Intonation Music

Intonation Music is a Bronzeville-based nonprofit dedicated to providing high-quality music education and mentorship to youth from communities where access to the arts is limited. Currently working with 5 elementary schools and 2 high school campuses, Intonation helps to fill the gap, serving nearly 500 students per year. Band classes take place at schools, park facilities, and community spaces, including their very own new headquarters in the heart of Bronzeville. Through ensemble-based instruction, workshops, and performance opportunities, Intonation creates welcoming spaces where young people can develop their musical abilities, playing the music they love while building confidence, creativity, and community.

At the heart of Intonation’s work is a student-led approach that pairs students with experienced teaching artists who guide them not only as musicians, but as young people discovering their voice and identity. Students participate in collaborative music-making that encourages creative expression, teamwork, and leadership. By removing barriers to arts education and fostering long-term relationships between students and instructors, Intonation ensures that young people have access to meaningful artistic experiences that support their personal and creative development.