Words cannot describe how much I love this place! I primarily go here to take classes. The teachers are top notch and the overall atmosphere is very inviting yet laid back. Their 2 big offerings are the Wiggleworm classes for young children and the core guitar group classes for adults. Sessions are normally 8 weeks  in length and classes are normally about 1.5 hours. After core guitar classes, there is a 30 minute open jam where all levels come to play together, called "2nd half". For those looking for something different, there are a ton of other offerings to suit your needs - dance from African to ballroom to ballet to Irish to hip hop; music instruction from ukelele to drums to bass guitar to harmonica to oud; musicianship classes from theory to lead guitar skills to guitar fingerpicking skills; "ensemble classes" where it is like you are in a band with different instruments and vocalists focusing on things such as The Beatles to 80's Hair Metal to Reggae to Country to Brazilian to Tweedy; and other classes from acting to musical theater to songwriting to creating your own comics. Most of the adult classes are group classes where there are about 10 - 15 people in a class (sometimes less). I have formed great friendships with the people I take classes with  as well with my teachers and I know of some romantic relationships that have resulted because of Old Town. And there are great concerts that are shown at Old Town, normally focusing on folk or global music. In the recent past or near future, there has been Alejandro Escovedo, Bajofondo, Michael Nesmith, Rufus Wainwright and Allison Kraus and Kris Kristofferson. Classes are usually about $170 session but Old Town does have a financial aid program available (their motto is to offer music to anyone who wants to learn). In addition, there is usually an early bird discount for early registration, member discounts for Old Town Members and volunteer discounts for Old Town volunteers. The store also offers instrument rentals so you can go to one session and see if you really like that instrument before plunking down $$$ for your own instrument. For core guitar classes, I have really enjoyed Andrea Bunch, Elaine Moore, Cathy Norden, Charles Kim, Steve Levitt, Jacob Sweet, Dan Fulkerson, Barb Silverman and Rebecca Toon but I have heard great things about all the other teachers. For voice, I have really enjoyed Gwen Pippin's and Typhanie Monique's classes. If you are confused about which class to take, call the front office and they will help you out. So stop by the school, bring your instrument, grab a beer at the cafe and walk into class and have have a great time with excellent teachers and good friends!
Review Source:Good for: live music (evenings, mostly) kids classes (Lisa and Tom are GREAT) adult classes (jigging, African dance, zydeco) lessons (voice, string instruments, drums.. everything else) meeting really interesting people. Volunteers are a treat! Just saw BeauSoleil and seeing Dar Williams in a couple of weeks. Makes me proud to live here!
Review Source:I have taken an African dance class a couple years ago; and have been to a few concerts in the original Old Town School of Folk Music establishment, but have never been to the new music hall across the street. Â The new venue is great! Â The hall is on the second floor and is designed extremely well. Â We were so close to the bands and the acoustics were great! Â
Another perk??!? Â They offer beer, wine, and snacks for decent prices. Â Just beware...the snacks and cocktails are sold for CASH only and there is not cash station in the building. Â Your best bet would be to hoof it over to either The Grafton for The Daley.
I can't wait to see/hear another performance at this place!
This past Wednesday I visited the Old Town School of Folk Music for their world music Wednesdays. My experience was nothing short of amazing! Three of my girlfriends and myself went together and arrived a little late thanks to the wonderful snow. When we arrived we were informed that there was no more seats available. After seeing our disappointment the two volunteers taking donations called over the manager. The manager gave us the option of standing until intermission with the hope that some of the seats would open up and also accepted a $20 donation for the 4 of us (normally they ask for a $10 donation for each person).
Upon entering the concert I was taken back by the band. The featured band for that night was Vegabond Opera, a band from Portland with music inspired from all over the world. They sang in 10 different languages using an accordion, sax, trumpet, drum set, a saw (yes for cutting wood), and had two of the most amazing female singers I have ever heard. Their style of music was extremely unique and beyond impressive.
During the intermission there were stands available to purchase refreshments including alcoholic beverages and snacks. The overall environment of the venue was very cozy and welcoming with a wonderful crowd. The people attending this concert were very personable and I sincerely enjoyed socializing with those I met.
I highly recommend the World Music Wednesdays at the Old Town School of Folk Music, if this sounds like something you would be interested in it is a guaranteed good time!
I WILL learn to play the guitar. Â There. Â I've said it publicly. Â All of Yelp can help keep me honest. Â These guys are the first step toward that goal and so far I think they are just the people to do it. Â Group classes. Â One on one. Â Very laid back atmosphere with people who just like music. Â Great place to hang out. Â If only they had a coffee shop attached. Â I personally think that would make the place take off. Â Not they really need any help in that regard. Â I feel like a part of Chicago's history just spending a little time here.
I use the smaller branch location on Armitage. Â It's a little run down. Â There's not a lot of money in music schools I think. Â Otherwise, they would have had 5 stars.
Old Town School of Folk Music has 2 different music venues and both of them are great! Â The newer music venue is smaller but the building is really clean, sleek and modern. Â They really did an awesome job designing the new venue. Â The seats are a bit uncomfortable. Â The sound is really good and everyone who attends the shows has an appreciation for music. Â Unlike so many places were people talk during the entire show and get sloppy drunk this doesn't happen here. Â They do sell some craft beers and have a small cafe but people really are there to listen to the music. Â The music acts and the ticket prices can't be beat. Â There are a couple of parking lot but they fill up but you can usually find somewhere to park close by. Â This is definitely my favorite place to listen to live music! Â If your expecting a rowdy night out this ain't the place.
Review Source:What a fun place to play and socialize in Lincoln Square.
I've been taking guitar classes for years  (still not very good.)  But the teachers help you like you're the next Eric Clapton.  Majority are fun.  Inspiring.  And best of all.... they sell beer!
The list of musical acts here is impressive. Â Some tend to be a bit "odd". Â Many are on the fringe of "over the hill" but still sound good. Â The music hall (the old one) has super acoustics. Â Plus not a bad seat in the house.
Best of all, most of the concert are under $25.
First Friday of the month they have their Friday Night Social. Â Show up. Â Bring an instrument (or not) and join in. Â I move from room to room. Â Always feel welcome. Â A true gem in the city
This is a great organization. I've taken many classes there... I can't say I have loved every teacher I've had there, but as a whole the entire organization is filled with great people, and that's what makes a business great. I haven't been in the new building yet, but the old building is nice.
The theater has the best sound in Chicago. It was built by musicians for musicians (and there isn't a bad seat in the place).
This organization is welcoming of people with all levels of talent, and in my experience they have been flexible about helping you find the right class for that skill level (even if you've never touched an instrument).
The store is nice too - perhaps a bit pricier than some music stores, but doesn't get any more convenient if you are taking classes there.
I attended another perfect Ottmar Liebert concert in May 2012. Â This is a great venue for his flamenco guitar. I hope he comes back year after year.
I arrived early to peek my head into OTSFM's new building across the street, it looks great! Â Sorry I had to miss out on the Hawaiian festival (Festival of Aloha) which was the following weekend. Â Hope they do it again. The festival featured music, dancing, and lessons/workshops over a four-day period. Bet you didn't know that I took dozens of professional hulas lessons as a teen and that I can speak some Hawaiian. Â (Really). And not just "aloha." This would have been right up my alley.
I've only gone to concerts -- but I've gone to a lot of them. Â Not only is the concert hall an absolutely fabulous place to see an artist -- from any seat -- but their selection of artists is so good that even if you've never heard of a particular artist, you can almost always be assured of a worthwhile show. Â And the prices are eminently reasonable, especially for members.
The new building across the street has a very welcoming design and provides much needed additional space for classes. Â The makeshift performance space over there is perfectly adequate, but it should only be used when the traditional hall isn't available or feasible.
I've had a chance to experience Old Town School both as a student and as an audience member for concerts/performances. I took several months of belly dancing lessons here and would highly recommend it. It's fun, you get to meet new people, get a workout, and if you're feeling courageous, you can show off your stuff at the end of the class term in a little mini show they put on for the students and their guests. Being a part of the show is optional, so don't hesitate to sign up for the belly dancing classes if you have stage freight or don't want to perform in front of people. And it is beginner level classes, so don't feel intimidated at all about learning to belly dance. The women in class were all shapes and sizes, all different ages, and all walks of life. And no, you don't need shapely hips to shake them.
I recently came back to Old Town to see Ottmar Liebert and Luna Negra perform and it blew me away. A Flamenco jazz artist, Ottmar plays the guitar like no one else. The theater is so small and intimate that you could feel every beautiful note he and Luna Negra played, the acoustics are fantastic. The seats are plush and comfy. You can buy wine or other refreshments from their stand and bring into the theater with you. Be on time for performances because it's hard to get into the theater once a performance starts. Tickets are more affordable than larger venues so it's definitely a bargain if your favorite artist is performing here. Sign up to be on their email list to get info on upcoming events/shows/classes. Staff is generally nice and helpful. You really get the community feel here. Everyone seems to know each other and you become a part of the Old Town family. Lovely place to take classes or take in a show.
Great concert venue!
We went to see a solo artist performing a 'plugged in' acoustic set. Â Sound was great.
I would describe the venue as an intimate concert hall, with a cool lounge feel. Â Bigger then a club or blues/lounge venue but smaller than a Lincoln hall...maybe 300-400 people split between a ground level and small balcony? Â Seating is wide cushioned very comfortable seats with great sight lines. Â They have a small bar that sells standard fare and allows you to take drinks inside.
It's a bit north in the city but well worth the drive with decent parking around the venue. Â Can't wait to get back.
When I was a child in the early 70's, my dad took guitar lessons at the Old Town School. For the last several years, my son has taken classes here, first wiggleworms, then little drummers. I expect he'll probably continue taking classes here for years.
These guys are an an awesome resource for the community, providing reasonably-priced classes and fantastically-curated musical entertainment.
I decided I needed to do something for myself after having my first little one this year, so I pulled out the ole' bucket list and choose #3: Â "Learn To Play Guitar"
I checked out the OTSOFM mainly because it seemed like the place to go for anything music. Â I signed up for Guitar 1 with Barbara S, and I've never taken a music class in my life so I figured this would be a good challenge.
The first day was great. Â Everyone (from every level) gathered in the concert hall, where a few of the teachers were there to tune everyone's guitar, and to give an overview of what to expect in whatever class you signed up for. Â Then you follow your teacher to your room to get started. Â The BEST part is after your lesson, everyone gathers BACK together in the concert hall to drink beers and jam together. Â Does saying "jam" make me old?
Back to Barbara, I love her. Â She is warm, silly, and a great teacher for beginners. Â We all sat in one big circle and learned a couple chords, A7, D, & E. Â Barbara had us sing a couple cords; I mouthed the song as I didn't want to scare the gentleman next to me. Â She paced the class perfectly....
I'll update this when the "school year" is over, but it was such a great start that I wanted to get this up.
Great concert venue -- a small auditorium which claims to have no "bad seats", and I think I'd agree. The acoustics and sound system are pretty good too.
I haven't taken any classes here yet, but the place has a "everybody knows your name" kind of vibe, which could I guess be either be very welcoming or a little intimidating. The volunteers showing people to their seats probably knew 50% of the people who came for the concert last night.
(Tip for any non night-owls, if you have the option, go to an earlier show. The 10pm set last night started with a support act, and the headliners didn't start until after an intermission, at around 11.15pm. The show didn't finish until after 12.30am.)
Yep the "big" 500! I bet you were expecting a play house of some sort but I thought I might as well talk about my other passion in life... music!
Music has this uncanny knack for bringing out the many sides of us... and it does this with ease just from a few simple notes. It's full of our emotions when it's played and creates emotion when it's heard. Music binds itself to our memories, a simple song can create a picture in our head that brings us back to that moment. I'm sure as most of you, I can relate various songs to various times in my life whether it was a song playing in the background or something that was playing in my head because it fit the feelings I had so well like the song was meant for me. Music both empower us and defeat us; and what I love the most... is that it is different for everyone but it always brings us together!
Old Town understands these ideas! Their teachers have mastered their craft so they can help you do the same. Like in music, not all teachers are the same, but you will certainly learn something before you go. One of the many things that makes OT so great is their variety! You can learn many different instruments, along with song writing, voice coaching, art, and dance. They offer so much to choose from and they even have classes for kids. The atmosphere is relaxed (though your first time will probably be scary but that after it's a breeze), nobody is there to make fun of you, and eventually the whole class forms this bond and everyone is trying to help each other out.
I had the pleasure of taking a guitar class and not only was it fun but I finished the sessions being able to actually play a few songs. Our instructor was a little difficult to understand at times but he did make us play till our fingers hurt (which was a good thing). Oh, did I forget to mention that they are so relaxed in class that they welcome you to bring in some food or even a few drinks. Nothing like having a cold one and playing some tunes!! I can't wait to sign up again and maybe you should sign up with me?!
A persons taste in music might change over the years but the most important part is to keep music alive. Please support your local bands, your teachers like at Old Town, or even our school systems to keep music in the classrooms. Music is one of the greatest things on Earth.
*** Also see Old Town for concerts and performances, good shows for a good price. Of course you should check out the Chicago Folk & Roots Festival held in Wells Park, it's a fun time!
This is a review for adult guitar lessons. I've never seen a concert there (although I might look into the Magnetic Fields next weekend).
Ok, what kind of lesbian would I be if I didn't play acoustic guitar, right? So I headed over to Old Town so I could live up to stereotypes. I just started my second (8 week) session of guitar lessons and am amazed at how much I've learned in only 9 weeks. The staff and students there are so laid-back and friendly (well, almost everyone). The teachers are knowledgeable, accessible, and helpful. After class, all guitar levels go to the concert hall where we all play folk music together. It is so wonderfully hippyish that I feel like I've traveled back in time to 1967. And everyone drinks beer! All that's missing is a joint being passed around.
The year of 2009 was back-to-back 8-week guitar classes and I don't know where I'd be without this place. Â Guitargirl... to the rescue!
First impressions: Â
- Â Yay, fellow hippies!
- Wait, we are SUPPOSED to drink a beer during class?
- Whoah, some of these hippies are hot and have jobs.
- This snack bar has Alpha King! and Sierra Nevada! Â and many salads and pastas and soups and fancy homemade middle eastern-type flaky hot pockets!
- Oh, but one of the hot bearded dudes brought a six of PBRs to share.
Guitar I - I realized that I can actually hold a guitar instead of just looking at it, and I can play and sing at the same time! Â This class teaches basic songs with A D G.
Guitar I Rep - I can slide chords up and down and not stop singing! Â But ouch, the C chord, and double ouch to B7. Â
Guitar II - um, this is where I got stuck. Â The F chord, alternating bass strumming, bass runs, finger-picking solos, trying to figure out how to switch my G chord to one that uses the pinky so I can switch to G7 and C from there. Â I'm basically unlearning and retraining my fingers to move in a way that they are not quite used to. Â Feel the burn, love the burn. Â Thank god for Alpha King. Â
I'm now in Guitar II for the fourth time and still working at it, but I've met all of the teachers by now and they're all fantastic. Â I do have my favorites.
Seriously though, all you need is a guitar. Â You have one, you just don't know how to play it. Â Neither does anyone in Guitar I, so what are you waiting for?
I took a ukulele class here with Lanialoha Lee and it was so, so amazing. Lani has got to be the kindest human being I have ever met. The class was paced well and she gave us lots of handouts so we could practice at home without buying an expensive music book. She really wants her students to enjoy playing, so she opens up all of her classes to her ukulele-ers. Miss a class? Just come to one of the others!
If I had the financial ability to do so, I'd be taking classes here all the time. The school itself is such a positive environment; no elitism, no cliques, Â only smiling faces and music.
Amazing. The experience of your life. It doesn't get any better than this.
I liken classes at the OTSFM to many of my intimate, exploratory grad school classes that contributed so much to who I am as an adult. I thought I was coming to class to learn chords and practice picking, and instead OTSFM taught me about who I am as a person and musician, what music is and what music is to me. I didn't count on that. I really didn't count on being as happy as I am when I'm finding out that music is kind of, well, an extension of me (and vice versa??).
This awakening is beyond the scope of what most guitar teachers (heck, most any teachers) offer their students, and it has been invaluable during some difficult times, keeping me excited, confident and positive. Â OTSFM empowers and motivates casual and novice guitarists to not just play but also study, and that is such a gift. It is obvious how much teachers at the OTSFM love Music in that it makes me feel validated in my own love of the subject. And that is just awesome!
The Old Town School has added dimensionally to my life. I know am lucky to have found it. One in a million, and so good to, and for, the community.
Thank you for everything!!! YOU ARE SO MUCH FUN, OTSFM!!
I saw Boukman Eksperyans here last night and had so much fun!!!
The venue is modest and yet incredibly cool. Â As we waited in line to get in a small child pulled on his dad's hand while pointing at the vending machine, "I want a Pop Tart, Dad. Â There's Pop Tarts in there. Â I want a Pot Tart." Â His enthusiasm made us all want Pop Tarts. Â The vending machine also had guitar strings and 9v batteries. Â McGyver would be pleased.
On our way up to the balcony we passed a few separate acoustic jam sessions and classrooms where lessons are held. Â
The main floor had a small bar where you could get coffee, wine and beer. Â The seats were comfy and the sound great. Â An overall excellent experience.
Last night was my first time seeing a concert at the OTSFM and I have to say that it was an amazing concert experience. It could have been because I was seeing one of my most favorite Irish singer/songwriters, Luka Bloom, or it could have been for the intimate space, or maybe a bit of both. Â Maybe it was all the ciders I was drinking during the show? Nahhhh... it was definitely the music. Â
It was incredible to be so close to the stage and to feel all the music love in the room. You guys know what I'm talking about, right? When there is just so much love of music in the room and you cant help but feel all full of emotion? Yeah. This place gave me mad music love.
I was never a fan of these type of places, but was I wrong. My wife signed my 4 year old up for a drum class. Rhythm and hand-eye coordination... And I took him. It was fantastic. Really enjoyed the class as did my son. Lets teaching and more touching drums and banging and learning different rhythms.
Well worth it.
Great place to see a concert or take a class.
I am a big fan of their World Music Wednesdays and it is nice to see an unknown amazing artist so close up for a very small price or FREE !!!!!
I have also taken lessons here, again very inexpensive, very small classes and usually taught by an expectational teacher/artist.
Great staff, friendly and would go out of their way to accommodate your requests.
There is inexpensive parking right across the street and I have not had any issues finding parking even when it is the weekend.
Great web site, very easy to navigate and very informative.
Looking forward to the next concert.
This place rocks!!!
I have seen several shows here, all of which have been fabulous!
I was here this past weekend to see the Wiyos. They put on a great show with a combination of styles that can only be described as old time-swing-washboard-blues. I also liked that they didn't take themselves too seriously. In between each song they shared humorous anecdotes that served as a very enjoyable introduction to the next song.
At the end of their set, the applause was so great that they came back and played another washboard song, which I thoroughly enjoyed. I would certainly make it a point to see them, when they come through Chicago again.
In the mean time, I will be back to OTSF for more enjoyable entertainment that doesn't break the bank. Thanks for having such a great resource right here in the Lincoln Square area.
This review is for the Wiggleworms classes.
As a new mom who works from home, and who wasn't adjusting well to motherhood, I decided to try Wiggleworms as a way to give my son some interaction and hopefully develop a love of music, as I have always had. I'd heard about Wiggleworms, and I'd imagined it to be some yuppie mom hangout that I wouldn't like it at all.
The hardest thing about becoming a mother for me was the nightmares I'd have about "play dates," and mom-zillas. I always pay at the pump. I do every financial transaction possible online. I just avoid human interaction at all costs. What to do, now that  a tiny human is in my world?? Is it fair to him that mom would rather sit at home with pets and CDs and zone out from the world? Don't get me wrong--I am very sociable and downright crazy most of the time, but it has to be on my own terms, with my own friends, at the places we chose to be. And that's usually a tavern.
My child, now 18 mos., has gone here since he was 6 months old. Over several registration periods, I've followed a particular instructor around so I have been to this, the Evanston, and the Armitage Wiggleworms class locations.
Having gone for a year, I have met several instructors who came as substitutes. Some are better than others. The class vibe depends greatly on the instructor, which is part of the reason I am loyal to one in particular. Â
The class structure is great; kids of a narrow age group roam freely while the instructor plays acoustic guitar (classics and folk mostly) and sings. Kids can play plastic tambourines and maracas. All activities are age appropriate.
For the most part, I've really liked the other moms. Even if we don't have a ton in common, they're pleasant. A few even seem more like me--no offense to them, ha ha-- than I imagined. It has been a positive experience and my son really loves it. I wouldn't dream of not going.
Classes are 45 min. and come out to be about $15/ea. An outstanding value! Send me a message if you have any questions.
I recently came here for my friend's graduation which was more of a recital of all the different classes. Â They have a nice music hall with comfy seats and a food/drink bar set up outside which is cash only.
I was definitely impressed with how much people can learn in the matter of weeks from the Irish jig and tap/step to my friend with her guitar class strumming their chords and singing along.
If I lived closer, I would definitely want to take advantage of the fun classes that they offer.
I've had a really bad experience with Old Town. Â I've visited a few times for concerts and would recommend it highly for that. Â Also if other reviewers recommend certain services I will say go for it.
However this is my story and my singular experience has been awful. Â First off due to some admin errors two of my classes were missed and the instructor etc really didn't seem to worried about making them up so I have two credits. Â What I am going to do with these credits is beyond me.
Additionally, if you work downtown like many people do trekking up to Lincoln Square for a 6PM class will take you an hour by car. Â Feel free to lug your instrument on the jam packed CTA and shave off time that way.
Lastly my instructor had a classic moment yesterday. We started late as I sat outside the door five minutes past six (our starting time) and then he excused himself for a few minutes. When he came back in we started and continued until 6:25. Â At which point he says, the next people are "chomping at the bit to get in here and I have a 6:30" Â I could've said "who cares if they are chomping at the bit" but I didn't as I thought he needed time to get to his next appt. Â
So when I went to the front desk to inquire about the next set of classes my instructor walked in enjoying a nice cup of soup. Â Am I that bad? Â Maybe but I'll never set foot in that place again for a class.
One of the most incredible resources in Chicago for cool classes and world music. Every time I come here I always think to myself "WHY am I not here every single weekend, learning something cool?"
Music, dance . . . all my favorite things are here. And it's incredible for kids, they have so many things here to burn off all that little-kid energy.
There are few things I've done in my adult life (or any other part of my life for that matter) that have brought me as much fun, fulfillment and satisfaction as taking guitar lessons at The Old Town School of Folk
Music. Â
Now, don't let the name "Old Town School of Folk Music" scare you away. Â Though the original school was founded fifty years ago in Old Town, I take classes at the Lincoln Square location.
As far as "Folk" is concerned, folk is taught here and is still a part of the curriculum, but not really in the group classes. Â The music I've been learning since day one (I've been going there for about seven months now) has been Wilco, The Ramones, The Beatles, Bowie,
Ani  DiFranco, Greenday, Nirvana and a slew of other artists I love.
Acoustic guitar classes now cost $160 for an eight week session, but if you join more than a week before classes begin, you receive a $15 discount. Â If you buy a basic membership (this is NOT required) for $50, you receive an additional discount of $10 dollars. Â I don't have a membership yet, but even at $145 this place is a great bargain.
I've only taken acoustic guitar group lessons here, but Old Town also offers private lessons for those of you wanting one-on-one training. Â However, if you're thinking you'll learn more going it alone, you may want to reconsider. Â Group lessons last longer (an hour and 40 minutes) than private lessons (between a half hour and an hour depending on your preference) and other students often raise questions you never even thought to ask. Â Also, I've picked up a lot of tips from other students.
If a tight schedule is your concern, Old Town offers morning, afternoon, early evening, mid-evening and weekend classes. Â And, if you only have time for class but no time to practice, it really doesn't matter here. Â Sure, everyone hopes you'll find time to practice in between classes, but the attitude of the instructors is that if you only play for an hour and 40 minutes a week in class and that's it, well, that's better than not playing at all.
Additionally, this school understands that as adults we get busy. Â So, if you miss your scheduled class, fear not, you can just show up on another night and take the same class. Â No questions, no forms to fill out, no hassles.
If your age is your rationalization for not learning an instrument or learning to sing or dance, if you're worried you'll be the oldest one there, you'll have to come up with another excuse. Â While most of the students in the 8 p.m. classes are in their 20's and 30's, not all are. Â In fact, there are students of all ages here and the ones in their 60's and beyond are perhaps the coolest. Â I mean, it's pretty cool when a 65-year-old woman picks up a guitar and starts jamming Oasis tunes.
After the evening classes any student who wishes can go to the auditorium and play in a jam session dubbed "The Second Half." Â It really only lasts a half hour, but it's a great 30 minutes. Â Here, students from all the different levels of guitar class gather to play usually three songs from the Old Town music book and then two songs chosen each week by a different teacher. Â These two songs are called the "Twin Spin" as it consists of one piece of paper with a different song on each side. Â The songs are almost always contemporary rock songs. Â This is a big selling point as far as I'm concerned because it's a great way to build your music collection. Â The value of the music you get each week easily offsets the price of the class.
And, if you like, you can go to as many second half sessions as you want, even if you don't have class that night. Â You can even go if you're not a student, the public is encouraged to show with a guitar and play.
Old Town offers a whole lot more than guitar. Â They offer classes in dance, theater, yoga, a ton of classes for kids - babies through teens - specialty classes and even ensemble classes for anyone who wants to play in a band regardless of experience level.
And then there are the concerts. Â The 400-seat auditorium is one of the best places to see international and national acts. Â The shows are affordable and hosted in a very intimate setting.
There is a cafe that sells food, coffee drinks, and yes, beer and wine.
If you're interested in finally learning to play an instrument, if you just want to get out of the house once a week, maybe meet some people with similar interests, then The Old Town School of Folk Music is worth checking out. Â I can't possibly express in a written review just how much I love this place. Â I guess you'll just have to come hear me play sometime.
First off, I am writing about my guitar class that I took and not about bad customer service. (which is very possible because of the hippie infestation that Old Town has)
Once I got through the very confusing process of trying to figure out which level I was at ( for self taught people this can be a problem with the guitar program, as no one really knew what went on in each class the day I went to register) I chose my class and closed my eyes and hoped for the best.
What happened over the next eight weeks was amazing. I went to class and found myself submerged in a new world filled with music, music theory, history (of both the music we played and of The Old Town School) Beer , weirdos, people in my class who didn't practice and the famous second half which made the day for me. Second half is when all the guitar classes meet in the town hall and play songs from the song book and just play. Â 50 to 80 people of all levels playing together. This was hell for some, but it was an amazing experience for me to be in a room filled with singing and jamming and it was my favorite part of the class.
I had seen a lot of people in my class get fed up with the lack of structure that I also experienced at Old Town. But what I learned and all the amazing people that I met made up for any of the mishaps. If everything ran smoothly Old Town would most definitely lose most of its charm. (I mean where else can you watch your teacher slowly get drunk from the beer that they brought to class and slow jam to Joan Osborne's "One of Us"?
I also learned a great deal at Old Town. I have been playing for two months now and have already done an open mic, written several songs, can play  a few lead riffs and I just plain rock! Either I am the lady version of that Shine guy, or Old Town is a great place to learn how to play. (if you practice)
They also have classes on a tons of other instruments, voice dance, theater, kids classes, live shows and workshops. The only thing I didn't  see there was a class on how to play the spoons.
"FAME!! Â I'm gonna live forever!! Â Baby remember my name!!" Â Like the old Irene Cara song I felt like a rock star in this place.
Where else in Chicago can you take a group of 22 adults who know nothing about guitar playing and walk out two hours later actually playing a guitar and singing along? Â Well- that's what happened when we visited this place last week as part of my team's holiday outing.
We were looking for something creatively different to do together as a team and this came up as an idea. Â While I initially doubted that we could actually make something that sounded like music in 2 hours- I thought we'd give it a try.
The instructors were patient and taught in a way that was easily understood. No need to learn notes- just strumming patterns and three chords. The one guy reminded me of Jack Black with his humorous way of approaching all the issues we had (lost picks, bad strumming, slippery guitars, horrible dissonance). Â They took it all in stride. Â They even provided some coolers of beer to assist in our playing efforts!
While the music that we made was elementary at best, the camaraderie and teamwork that came out of it was worth it. Â We all walked away with sore fingers but a true sense of accomplishment.
And at the rock bottom price of about $20 per person for the 2 hours- you might just want to put away your Playstation "Guitar Hero" Â and go and play for real!!
Just saw two groups from Mali - Tinariwen & Mamadou Diabate-- performing here tonight. It was off the mother-f'in CHAIN!! I knew a few things going in:
1) I would be the brownest mofo in the audience (CHECK; this audience was so privileged i'm pretty sure their babies shit gold);
2) This band would be taking us on some intergalactic the-rhythm-is-gonna-getcha journey of musical genius (CHECK);
3) No one would get out of their seats and dance (WRONG)
OH. HOLY. NIGHT. The 70+ year old geriatrics were the first ones up and at it; pumpin their fists to the West African drum beats and throwing together some messed up mix of the jitterbug/twist/roger rabbit - IT WAS INSANE IN THE MEMBRANE. I could not handle it. There is NOTHING, and I mean NOTHING, hotter than people who cannot dance sayin "F*CK IT. I AM DANCING TONIGHT!!!" And the band? Â Gurl, you KNOW it's on when the band members give each other that "WE'RE BRINGIN DOWN THE MUTHA F'ING HOUSE TONIGHT" look -- O-KAY?!!! Perfect venue, perfect company, perfect night.
After seeing only one show here, this is definitely one of my favorite venues now. I go to quite a few concerts but somehow the chance to see a show at Old Town has eluded me till I saw the Ditty Bops here on a Sunday night. The building has a certain institutional elegance to it as you enter the front stairs. The lobby is not too crowded, even with vendor tables set up.
The private parking lot across the street for $6 is decent compared to the ridiculous cost of parking downtown. Concessions are great in terms of their selection of beverages and snacks. While I passed on getting any coffee, I would've been happier if they had cappuccino or some frothy concoction to enjoy during the show.
The theatre itself is very sleek and modern, with comfortable, padded benches and individual seats. I'd say they could use more leg room for people to get around you, but same goes for Allstate Arena and so many other places. The sound is excellent and the stage is visible from all sides since it protrudes into the audience area.
Finally, the bathrooms are clean and well-kept. The ushers are helpful and the whole place has a good vibe to it, is the best way I can describe it. I look forward to another show here in the future.
I have been to the Old Town School of Folk Music many of times, any where from belly dancing recitals to seeing acoustic Smog shows.
This last weekend I was super super excited as the Books are one of my favorite musical groups of all times, and live are stunning.
The three of us arrived and upon retrieving our tickets at the will call, I was told there were no tickets under my name.
devastated, I started to think back when I Â bought them via their website, I picked out seats, confirmed the payment on Credit card..but it occurred to me that I didn't recall getting a confirmation letter. It was a stressful busy day that day...and I was just super stoked about getting tickets..
NOOOO!!!
Basically humiliated, the woman behind the counter didn't make me feel any better.  Granted she let me use the computer to check through  my email...but in general made me feel about 100 times stupider then I already did.  The show was sold out...so no seats were available..
no attempt to help me or offer to let me see if any tickets were left at the end were made.
I know, it's primarily my fault, but...if you work in customer service no need to make the customer feel worse than they already do.
Where else in the world can you go to learn the following: Beatles, Wilco, and the Grateful Dead songbooks; flamenco dancing, jazz bass or vocals, blues harmonica, djembe, irish fiddle, all in the SAME PLACE? Nowhere folks.
They've got a great little cafe that has beer and sandwiches and middle eastern food so you don't have to run around for food if you're pressed for time.
The 300-seat theater has impeccable acoustics, great sight lines, and many of their performances are free!
Old Town rocks. Â I've been taking classes here for 6 years. Â First I took the entire guitar sequence. Â Every teacher I had was passionate, talented & patient. Then I moved on to West African Dance. Â I sweat my tush off every Sunday. I would seriously cry if I ever moved and had to be without my dance class.
Old Town has a great vibe. Â Very welcoming.
The Old Town School has so much to offer. I've taken guitar classes here for years. I've also taken some dancing classes, theory classes, voice lessons - all reasonably priced compared to going to a private lesson out of the OTSFM. The instructors are very enthusiastic and really love what they do.
I recommend taking guitar classes with Jimmy Tomasello, Chris Walz, Steve Levitt and Dan Fulkerson.
The Different Strummer will also change your strings for you if you can't do it yourself and have a lot of what you'll need for class for sale. Some things may be pricier than what you'd pay at some other stores but that's because they're not running some crazy instrument franchise (if that makes any sense).
Try to register 2 weeks before class - you'll get a $10 discount (maybe it's more nowadays...not sure).
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