VanderCook College of Music Gala
VanderCook College of Music stands alone in American education. As the nation’s only college devoted exclusively to preparing music educators, VanderCook trains its students to teach every instrument and voice, opening a world of musical possibility for future generations.
The VanderCook College of Music Gala is our signature celebration, an elegant evening where students, educators, and supporters come together in harmony. Through outstanding performances and heartfelt moments, we honor the belief that music transforms lives.
Your participation helps sustain this extraordinary institution and ensures that the power of music continues to reach children in classrooms and communities everywhere. At VanderCook, music doesn’t just happen—music takes place and thrives.
Proceeds From The Gala Directly Support:
- Student scholarships through the Great Teachers Scholarship Fund, empowering aspiring music educators to pursue their passion regardless of financial barriers;
- Instrument acquisition and maintenance support, ensuring that every student has access to high-quality, well-maintained instruments essential for their success; and
- VanderCook’s One City program, providing access to music education for children and families in Chicago neighborhoods.
Join Us In Making An Impact
When you support the VanderCook College of Music Gala, you become part of a legacy that echoes far beyond one evening.
Your generosity empowers future teachers, inspires creativity in young learners, and sustains the heartbeat of music education for generations to come.
Together, we ensure that every child can experience the joy, discipline, and beauty that music brings.
Honored Guests & Leadership
Special Guest Artist
Music Director
Guest Artists
Master of Ceremonies
Anchor/Reporter
NBC Chicago
Special Appearance
Chicago Bears Broadcaster
WSCR Radio
Gala Committee Co-Chairs
Gala Committee
Andrew Collins
Carolyn Day
Kimberly Farris
Jennifer Hale
Hermene Hartman
Tamara Hudgins
Chip Johnson
Judy Mathews
Adrian Newell
Jan Roberts
David Samber
Charles Smith
Monica Soto
Anne Viner
Nicole Wheatly
Nike Whitcomb
Cynthia Williams
Sponsorship Opportunities
Presenting Sponsor $40,000
- Marquee recognition and signage placement on all event materials including signage, website, and social media
- Private Pre-event Reception Invitation for your 20 guests and opportunity to welcome all VIP Reception attendees
- Public recognition before, during and after the event with social media feature
- Opportunity for company representative to speak during the program
- 2 stage-side tables for 20 guests with prominent signage
- Full-page ad in the gala program
- Valet Parking for you and all your guests
- Exclusive 1-hour performance at your location by a VanderCook College of Music student ensemble or faculty at a select time during the academic year
- Feature story spotlight on VanderCook’s website and VanderLoop newsletter
- Opportunity to present marketing materials for attendees
Platinum Sponsor $25,000
- Recognition and logo placement on all event materials including signage, website, and social media
- Private Pre-event Reception Invitation for your 20 guests
- 2 stage-side tables for 20 guests with prominent signage
- Logo placement on Gala website and printed program
- Full-page ad in the gala program Valet Parking for you and all your guests
- Unique ring tone created for you by VanderCook faculty and students
- Social media acknowledgment
Gold Sponsor $10,000
- Recognition on all event materials including signage, website, and social media
- 1 reserved preferred location table with seating for 10 guests
- Logo placement on Gala website and printed program
- Half-page ad in Gala program
- Social media acknowledgment
Silver Sponsor $5,000
- Recognition on event materials
- 1 reserved table with seating for 10 guests
- Quarter-page ad in Gala program
- Social media thank you post
Bronze Sponsor $2,500
- 1 reserved table with seating for 10 guests
- Recognition in Gala program
For sponsorship or other inquiries:
(312) 788-1131
Sponsors
We extend our heartfelt thanks to our sponsors for their generous support of the VanderCook College of Music Gala.
MEDIA SPONSOR
