Intonation Music Workshop’s Annual Gala Fundraiser is Thursday, October 13th at Alhambra Palace in Chicago. Members of Wilco signed a new Brown Fender Telecaster, which will be the headline auction item at the event. The proceeds will be used to to provide high quality instruction in the IMW classroom.
In addition, Patrick Sansone & John Stirratt will play an acoustic set of music by their band, The Autumn Defense.
Intonation Music Workshop is a Chicago-based non-profit which empowers children to become rock stars on every stage in life through innovative music education. Using donated instruments and a unique pop band curriculum, IMW’s after-school music program provides hundreds of kids age 6-17 in Chicago’s under served communities with year-round access to instruments, instruction and performance opportunities in a safe and positive environment. IMW students learn to express themselves musically, at the same time developing life skills such as teamwork, collaboration, practice, and setting goals. IMW Instructors work closely with the students as they explore each aspect of the pop band format- drums, bass, guitar, keyboards and vocals-before choosing their niche and forming a band with fellow students. The bands are then mentored through weeks of preparation for community performances which include local arts nights, parades, rock clubs, and music festivals like Lollapalooza and North Coast. The process of learning to play instruments and perform in a band for the community sparks for many students a life-changing sense of accomplishment and belonging. IMW partners with Chicago Public and Charter Schools, The Chicago Park District, and other community organizations in the realization of its mission.