American Music Institute

American Music Institute is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to providing high-level music education for students of all ages, instruments, levels, and styles of music. Founded with the mission to make quality music instruction accessible to everyone, AMI offers comprehensive music lessons taught by world-class musicians from prestigious conservatories like Juilliard, Oberlin, and Berklee.

The institute operates four campuses throughout the western Chicago suburbs in Clarendon Hills, Downers Grove, St. Charles, and Geneva, Illinois. Students can choose from private lessons, group classes, or in-home instruction across all symphonic wind, brass, percussion, and string instruments, as well as piano, voice, and guitar. The curriculum includes traditional and Suzuki method instruction, with options for both in-person and online lessons.

AMI’s award-winning faculty brings professional expertise and real-world experience to every lesson, inspiring excellence and providing the highest level of musical training. The organization offers a range of programs beyond private lessons, including masterclasses, performance classes, group music classes, park district music classes, and homeschool music programs. Their Mini Campus program provides additional opportunities for young musicians to develop their skills.

The institute hosts a Summer Music Camp held annually in July at the Clarendon Hills campus, welcoming students ages 5-18 of all levels and instruments. AMI also runs the American Youth Chamber Orchestra (AYCO), organizes the Chicago Violin Competition, and offers a College Faculty program where students can study with faculty members who currently teach at prestigious colleges and universities around Chicago. Through their Gift Package program, families can give the gift of music lessons to loved ones. AMI is committed to making quality music education available regardless of race, gender, religion, or economic disadvantage.