Bringing the joy and appreciation of music to Evanston schools since 1971
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© Evanston In-School Music Association (EISMA) • Independent 501(c)(3)
Winter 2025: Cultural Concert Series Recap
This winter, the Evanston In-School Music Association’s Cultural Concert Series welcomed audiences across Evanston for a vibrant season of music, connection, and cultural celebration. From packed rooms to engaged, enthusiastic listeners, it was clear these performances resonated deeply with the community.
Through free, one-hour concerts in accessible public spaces, the series brought people of all ages together to experience live music in meaningful and memorable ways. Highlights included Ruan & Hide’s evocative blend of Chinese and Taiwanese folk melodies at Art Makers Outpost, Ana Everling’s powerful interpretation of Moldovan folklore and improvised soundscapes at Evanston Public Library, and Luciano Antonio’s joyful Brazilian holiday concert filled with rhythm, warmth, and celebration.
Each performance reflected the richness of global music traditions while creating space for shared experiences right here in Evanston. We’re proud to see how strongly the community showed up: curious, engaged, and ready to connect through music. We look forward to continuing to grow this series in the seasons ahead.
Our Mission
Inspiring Students
Supporting Local Musicians
Strengthening Community
Evanston In-School Music Association (EISMA) is dedicated to Inspiring Students, Supporting Local Musicians, and Strengthening Community by presenting professional music programs that bring the joy and appreciation of diverse musical genres to all Evanston elementary and middle school students. EISMA’s concerts and accompanying educational materials expose children to the musical expressions of many different genres and cultures, teach respect for the skill and craft of making music, build audiences, and inspire the performers of tomorrow.
Bringing Professional, Diverse Music Programs to Every K–8 Classroom
Evanston In-School Music Association (EISMA) is a nonprofit arts and education organization dedicated to enriching the lives of elementary and middle school students through live, in-school music performances.
Twice each school year—once in fall and again in spring—EISMA presents its acclaimed Concerts for Kids series, reaching over 8,000 students and 200 educators across 19 Evanston schools, including special education and parochial programs.
Through engaging, professional performances by top Chicago-area musicians, students are introduced to:
18 unique genres of music
Instruments from strings to brass, woodwinds to voice
The cultural and historical context behind each musical style
Every concert includes thoughtful educational materials and inspiring storytelling, making music accessible, inclusive, and unforgettable.
Since 1971, Evanston In-School Music Association (EISMA) has been a cornerstone of music education in Evanston, bringing professional live music directly into K–8 classrooms. As a committed nonprofit and community partner, EISMA inspires thousands of elementary and middle school students each year with concerts that celebrate the diversity, richness, and power of music.
By presenting high-quality, in-school performances across a wide range of musical genres, EISMA nurtures a lifelong appreciation for the arts and plays a vital role in enriching Evanston’s cultural landscape.
Each Year We:
Research, plan and raise funds to sponsor 52 in-school concerts annually for 19 Evanston schools, including special education programs and two parochial schools
Contract top Chicago area musicians from a diversity of genres to share their craft, instruments, historical and cultural connections, and their love of music
Partner with school leaders, music educators, parents, and community members to Reach 8000 Evanston students grades K-8 and over 200 staff members twice a year
Collaborate with musicians and music educators to create education materials accompanying each performance
Provide staff and volunteers to facilitate performances in the schools
Inspire students with the opportunity to participate in 18 different professional music programs representative of the diverse musical genres
Empower students and staff with the knowledge and stories of professional musicians
Ensure students across entire Evanston community, regardless of ability or income, share a common experience listening to and learning about live music
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