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North Park University Community Music Academy

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 and Methodology

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.

Programs and Courses

• Master of Music Performance
• Community Music Academy
• Ensembles
• Arts Management Certificate
• Theatre
• Art
• Music
• Music Education (BME)
• Pre-Art Therapy

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.

Semester Schedule

The following are the 2025–26 semester schedules, with holidays excluded.

• Fall semester: September 6–December 20, 2025
• Spring semester: January 10–April 25, 2026

Class Schedule

Classes are held on Saturdays and are available for both beginners and non-beginner students.

• Beginner class: 10:00–10:45 a.m.
• Non-beginner class: 11:00–11:45 a.m.

Fees

• $25 one-time, nonrefundable registration fee per family
• $450 tuition per semester
• Optional:
  • $225 violin rental for two terms
  • $450 cello rental for two 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.

Parent Expectations

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.

Faculty

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.