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Where the most Inspired Musicians
become the most Inspiring Music Teachers

  • Music Education:
    A Sound Investment

    For over 100 years, VanderCook College of Music has specialized in turning musicians into the world’s finest music educators. Discover why VanderCook is among the most highly recommended music schools in the nation.

  • 2024-25 Visit Days!

    Make plans now to visit the VanderCook College of Music campus where you will participate in rehearsals and classes, meet our faculty and staff, complete your audition and more!

  • 2024-25 Online Masterclass Series

    Register NOW for a FREE Online Masterclass where you will have the opportunity to work with VanderCook faculty and learn valuable skills and techniques!

    Degree Programs

    BMEd

    Bachelor of
    Music Education

    BMped

    Bachelor of Music
    in Performance and Pedagogy

    MMEd

    Master of
    Music Education

    MCert

    Master of
    Music Education
    and Certification

    TCEP

    Teacher Certification
    Entitlement Program

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    Nationally Rated "Best Hidden Gem Music Education Schools"
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    Student to Teacher Ratio
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    Classes Taught by Faculty
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    Upcoming Events

    December 20, 2024

    Symphonic Band Performance @ Midwest Clinic: W375AB

    December 31, 2024

    VanderCook Scholars Program Priority Deadline (Applications submitted by this date are given priority consideration)

    Life on Campus

    mies campus VanderCook
    Our campus is located just minutes from downtown Chicago’s world-renowned music culture: Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Jazz Institute, Lyric Opera, etc.  Prospective students can shadow a current VanderCook student to gain insight about student life on campus, learn more about VCM, and get helpful information about applying for admission. Learn more about visiting VanderCook!

    Meet our Faculty

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    Doug Bistrow

    Applied String Bass
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    Michael Becker

    World Music, Music History
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    Bonnie Campbell

    Applied Clarinet
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    Stacey Larson Dolan

    Undergraduate Dean,
    Associate Director of Bands

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    Manju Durairaj

    General K-5 Methods

    National Chapter of Excellence!

    VanderCook’s NAfME collegiate chapter was  selected as the
    2020 Chapter of Excellence in the music program category.
    The chapter was recognized on June 25, 2020 during the virtual NAfME Reimagined National Leadership Assembly. Congratulations to the chapter’s e-board for all of their dedicated work and leadership!

    Matthew Hendricks, President
    Taylor Muñoz, President Elect
    Hope Miner, Secretary
    Khristopher Granados, Treasurer
    Marie Williams, Historian
    David Martinez, Warden
    Christopher Matthews, Undergraduate Representative

    Business Partners

    Logo 2022 Dark 1
    3140 South Federal Street
    Chicago, IL 60616-3731
    (312) 225-6288

    The mission of VanderCook College of Music is to enrich the lives of present and future generations by developing uniquely skilled music teachers who exhibit strong character, professionalism, and a commitment to excellence.

    © 2024 VanderCook College of Music. All Rights Reserved.
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