The North Park University Community Music Academy specializes in high-quality, literacy-based music education for students ages 5–18 in Albany Park and the surrounding communities. Music encourages community, out-of-the-box creative thinking, and problem-solving, offering students and the larger community a profound aesthetic experience.
Instruction is based on Shinichi Suzuki’s and Paul Rolland’s methods and philosophies—and traditional teaching methods—including opportunities for solo performance and introduction to music theory.
Group violin and cello lessons
Enrolled students participate in Saturday group violin and cello lessons, offered as a 15-week fall and spring semester. The last day of each semester will be a demo day that families can attend.
Classes occur at North Park University’s Hanson Hall, 5159 N. Spaulding Ave. View the campus map for directions.
Register
The following are the 2026–27 semester schedules, with holidays excluded.
- Fall term: September 19 – November 21, 2026
- Winter term: January 9 – March 13, 2027
- Spring term: April 3 – June 12, 2027
Classes are held on Saturday mornings and are available for beginners and all experience levels.
- $25 one-time, nonrefundable registration fee per family
- $300 tuition per term
- Optional: $225 violin rental for three terms
$450 cello rental for three terms
If families do not utilize this rental option, you must provide a size-appropriate instrument and ensure its proper maintenance. Renting is best for growing children up to and including high school level of playing.
Parents are critical in the early years of study; they attend all lessons and support daily practice. Students should practice at least five times per week between classes.
Director of Community Music Academy
Instructor Jennifer Dunne’s expertise in musical education allows students to attain concentration skills, develop a sense of high self-esteem, and experience joy in music. She has guided the string education of hundreds of aspiring musicians in violin, viola, chamber music, and string pedagogy.
Cello Instructor
Francisco Malespin is a cellist and dedicated educator whose musical journey began in his native Brazil, a place that inspired his lifelong commitment to cello performance and musicianship. Alongside his performance career, Malespin is a dedicated and experienced teacher. He maintains a private cello studio, where he provides personalized, student-centered instruction to students of all ages and backgrounds.