The Music Institute of Chicago (MIC) is dedicated to transforming lives through music education. Founded in 1931, the Music Institute has grown to become one of the largest and most respected community music schools in the nation. Offering musical excellence built on the strength of its distinguished faculty, commitment to quality, and breadth of programs and services, the Music Institute is a member of the National Guild for Community Arts Education and accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Pre-collegiate Arts Schools (ACCPAS). The Music Institute offers lessons and classes, and concerts through its Community Music School, Academy, and Nichols Concert Hall. Funding provided by the Highland Park Community Foundation is used to support Musikgarten® scholarships. Musikgarten® is a world-wide leader in early childhood music education, music and movement, and music classes for babies, toddlers, and Pre-K age children. With support from the HPCF, MIC is able to offer full and partial scholarships for young children from low- and moderate-income households in Highland Park and Highwood so they can participate in Musikgarten® classes.