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| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2027-02-02 | - |
Program Overview
Northern Illinois University College of Visual and Performing Arts
The College of Visual and Performing Arts at Northern Illinois University offers a variety of programs through its Office of External Programs.
Community School of the Arts
The Community School of the Arts provides opportunities for individuals of all ages to engage in artistic pursuits.
General Information
- About the Community School of the Arts
- Calendar
- Payments and Refunds
- Scholarships and Grants
- Recitals and Concerts
- Sinfonia Concerto Competition
- Student Attendance and Safety
- Teacher Biographies
- Parking at NIU
Programs
The Community School of the Arts offers the following programs:
- Music Classes (group)
- Music Lessons
- Ensembles
- Suzuki Program
- Advanced String Quartet Workshop
- Junior Chamber Music Workshop
- Registration
Steelband
Learn to play the steelpan in a fun setting. This instrument's unique sound is suited to many types of music. You'll learn to play pieces in the traditional calypso style, as well as classical, rock, and rhythm and/or blues. No experience is needed, but we recommend that you know how to read music. Steelband is for individuals ages 15 and older.
Spring 2026 Rehearsals
- Dates: Feb. 2-Apr. 27, no rehearsal Mar. 9
- Time: 6-6:55 p.m.
- Location: Music Building, room 154C
- Fee: $170
- Director: Nathaniel Guerra
- Concert: May 2 at 5 p.m. in the Recital Hall
The CSA Steelband performs at concerts with other NIU School of Music ensembles. Check the calendar for concert dates. The CSA Steelband also performs at the All-University Steelband and Steel Pan Studio concert Apr. 19 in the Concert Hall.
Ensembles
The Community School of the Arts offers the following ensembles:
- Guitar
- Sinfonia
- Steelband
- Symphonette
Summer in the Arts
The Summer in the Arts program offers various camps, including:
- Jazz Camp
- Percussion Camp
- Theatre Arts Camp
- Visual Arts Camp
High School Clinics
The High School Clinics offer the following programs:
- Choir Days
- Jazz Day
- String Days
- Chamber Music Encounters
- Jazz Combo Day
- Trumpet Day
- Violas Unite!