What We Do
EISMA presents two Concerts for Kids series each fall and spring of the school year. Over the course of 8-10 days, a group or solo musician performs live in 19 different schools. They share information about craft and personal inspiration and discuss historical and cultural connections.
Students experience a rich tapestry of musical styles performed by various combinations of strings, brass, voice, and woodwinds, reflecting the diverse traditions of many eras and cultures. Through these engaging concerts, EISMA fosters an appreciation for live music and enhances the musical education of our young audiences.
Past performers have included some of the best musicians in the Chicago area, such as Howard Levy, Corky Siegel, Maxwell Street Klezmer Band, Lamajamal, Reginald Robinson, Quintet Attacca Lowdown Brass Band, Mathew Tembo, Nicole Mitchell and Black Earth Strings, Occidental Brothers Dance Band International, and Gerald McClendon.
History
The Evanston In-School Music Association (EISMA) was founded in 1971 by a dedicated group of music educators, community members, and parents in response to the elimination of instrumental music education in Evanston/Skokie School District 65. EISMA began its mission by providing instruments and music instruction, along with engaging concerts and demonstrations in local schools.
As instrumental music programs were reinstated, EISMA shifted its focus to offering Concerts for Kids—live professional music programs held twice a year. These enriching in-school performances are provided at no cost to students or schools, ensuring accessibility for all.
EISMA has been recognized for its significant contributions to arts education, receiving the Arts in Education Award from the Evanston Arts Council for its continuous and outstanding commitment to fostering arts in education. Additionally, EISMA was honored with the 2005 Mayor's Award for the Arts and has received grants from both the Illinois Arts Council and the Evanston Arts Council, further supporting its mission to inspire and connect the Evanston community through music.
