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.

Time: 6:00 to 10:00 PM

Venue:  Zhou B Art Center

Address: 1029 W 35th St, Chicago, IL 60609

Theme:  “Chi-Chic” celebrates the city’s rich musical legacy and its distinctive blend of sophistication, grit, and artistic innovation. Music for the evening highlights Chicago composers, from classical greats to jazz innovators, honoring the city’s role as a creative hub. The theme sets a tone that is both upscale and authentically connected to the city’s musical soul.

Proceeds From The Gala Directly Support

Every dollar raised ensures that passionate and talented future teachers have the means to pursue their calling—and that every child, regardless of zip code or circumstance, can experience the transformative power of music.

• 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
  
  
• 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.  

• Marquee recognition and signage placement on all event  materials including signage, website, and social media
  
  
• Private Pre-event Reception Invitation for your 16 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 16 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 
  

• Recognition and logo placement on all event materials including signage, website, and social media
  
  
• Private Pre-event Reception Invitation for your 16 guests
  
  
• 2 stage-side tables for 16 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 

• Recognition on all event materials including signage, website, and social media
  
  
• 1 reserved preferred location table with seating
  for 8 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 8 guests
  
  
• Quarter-page ad in Gala program
  
  
• Social media thank you post