At Bucktown Music, our goal is to give every student a reliable, rewarding experience with their instructor. These policies help keep schedules consistent, protect lesson time, and make sure families always know what to expect.
If you have any questions, we are always happy to help.
1890 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647 | (773) 904-7426 | music@bucktownmusic.com
Tuition and Fees
Private lesson tuition is $145 per month per student. Tuition is calculated across 48 lessons per year, so your monthly rate stays the same regardless of how many weeks fall in a given month.
At the time of registration, the following are due:
- First month’s tuition
- $35 non-refundable registration fee
Monthly tuition is charged automatically on the 1st of each month to the credit card on file. If lessons begin mid-month, the first payment will be prorated. We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover.
| Fee Type | Description | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Tuition | Weekly private lesson instruction (48 lessons/year) | $145/mo |
| Registration Fee | One-time, non-refundable enrollment fee | $35 |
| Recital Fee | Optional participation in student recital | $25 |
| Late Payment Fee | None |
Lesson Lengths
The standard lesson format is a 30-minute weekly private lesson at $145 per month. 60-minute lessons are available at $290 per month, subject to instructor availability.
School Calendar and Days Off
Bucktown Music observes the following scheduled closures in 2026. These days are already factored into the $145/month tuition — your monthly rate does not change in these months.
- New Year’s Day — January 1
- Spring Break — March 23–25
- Memorial Day — May 23–25
- Juneteenth — June 19
- Independence Day Break — July 3–4
- Labor Day Break — September 7–8
- Thanksgiving — November 24–28
- Winter Break — December 23–31
Lesson Scheduling
Lessons are scheduled on a recurring weekly basis. When you enroll, you reserve a specific time slot with your instructor – for example, Wednesdays at 4:30 PM. That time is yours each week for as long as you are enrolled.
Because tuition reserves your instructor’s time, lessons cannot be rescheduled to a different day or time. Please plan around your regular lesson slot when possible.
You can manage your account and view scheduling through the Student Portal at app.mymusicstaff.com.
Attendance Policy
Regular attendance is essential for progress. Consistent weekly lessons allow students to build on what they have learned and maintain momentum with their teacher.
Tuition is not refunded or credited for missed lessons, regardless of the reason.
Makeup Lessons
Makeups are not guaranteed, but Bucktown Music offers a makeup credit system for absences reported in advance.
How to Qualify for a Makeup
To be eligible for a makeup credit, you must provide written notice at least 24 hours before the lesson. You can do this by:
- Emailing music@bucktownmusic.com
- Marking yourself absent through the Student Portal
If you do not provide advance notice, the lesson is forfeited and is not eligible for a makeup.
Scheduling a Makeup
Makeup lessons are scheduled in time slots opened by other absent students. You can view and reserve available slots through the Student Portal, or email or call Bucktown Music to find a time that works.
You may take a makeup with any available instructor – a makeup with your specific teacher is not guaranteed. It is the student’s responsibility to arrange a makeup; Bucktown Music will not automatically reschedule lessons or contact you when a spot opens.
Makeup Expiration
Makeup credits do not expire while you are an active enrolled student. If you discontinue lessons, all unused makeup credits are forfeited.
Inclement Weather, Teacher Illness, and Public Health Orders
In the event of inclement weather, teacher illness, or a public health order requiring social distancing, all lessons will move to a virtual format through a secure platform such as Zoom. No refunds or credits are issued for lessons conducted virtually.
In the case of a planned teacher absence, Bucktown Music will provide a qualified substitute instructor.
Discontinuing Lessons
If you need to stop taking lessons, please email music@bucktownmusic.com with written notice before the first day of your intended last month. Lessons will continue through the end of that month.
If you are unhappy with your lessons or your teacher for any reason, please reach out to us before discontinuing – we want the chance to address your concerns.
Recitals and Studio Events
Bucktown Music hosts recitals twice per year — one in the spring and one in the winter — giving students the opportunity to share what they have been working on and build confidence performing in front of an audience.
Participation is optional. There is a $25 per student participation fee for each recital. For upcoming recital dates, visit the School Calendar at ensembleschools.com/bucktown-music/calendar.
Contact and Support
Address: 1890 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
Phone: (773) 904-7426
Email: music@bucktownmusic.com
Student Portal: app.mymusicstaff.com
Hours of Operation
Monday–Thursday: 9:00am – 8:00pm
Friday: 9:00am – 6:00pm
Saturday: 8:30am – 2:30pm
Sunday: Closed