Business Details
46 Years
experience
Your Community Arts & Music Center in Libertyville
The Adler Arts Center is a community-driven institution dedicated to fostering critical thinking, creativity, and cultural engagement through music and the arts. Established in 1980, we operate from the historic David Adler House in Libertyville, Illinois, preserving its legacy while offering year-round programs for Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin. Our mission combines education, preservation, and community enrichment through immersive art classes, private music instruction, exhibitions, and youth programs. With a focus on accessibility, we provide financial aid and scholarships to ensure our programs are inclusive. Our team of experienced instructors and curators brings decades of expertise in visual arts, music, and cultural programming.We prioritize hands-on learning, from beginner art workshops to advanced music training, while maintaining a commitment to historical preservation and innovation. Our exhibitions showcase diverse voices, including LGBTQ+ artists and local creators, fostering dialogue and social impact. As a nonprofit, we collaborate with schools, artists, and community partners to strengthen regional cultural vitality. Our programs, including summer camps and monthly art drop-ins, cater to all ages and skill levels. Through these efforts, we aim to be a trusted leader in arts education and community engagement.
Services
Private Music Lessons
Art Classes
Summer Camp
Exhibitions
Financial Aid Programs
Youth Programs
Group Music Sessions
Art Drop-In
Writers' Salon
Ceramics Workshops
Details
- Year established: 1980
Highlights and features
- We offer year-round arts and music programs for all ages and skill levels.
- Our historic David Adler House provides a unique setting for cultural engagement.
- Experienced instructors deliver personalized music and art education.
- We prioritize accessibility through financial aid and community partnerships.
- Our exhibitions amplify diverse voices, including LGBTQ+ and local artists.
What people say
Creative environment
Experienced teachers
Family-friendly
Cultural impact
Historic charm
Services
Private Music Lessons
Adler Arts Center offers personalized private music lessons for all skill levels. Weekly sessions (30, 45, or 60 minutes) cover piano, violin, guitar, voice, and more. Our instructors combine technical training with creative expression, fostering growth through tailored curricula. Students benefit from recitals, accompanists, and discounted concert tickets.
Art Classes
We provide art classes for ages 5+ including drawing, painting, ceramics, and mixed media. Youth programs focus on foundational skills, while adult classes explore advanced techniques. Monthly drop-in sessions and workshops allow flexible participation. All classes emphasize hands-on learning and creative exploration in a supportive environment.
Summer Camp
Camp Adler offers summer programs for ages 5-11 focusing on music, art, and drama. Activities include themed projects, group games, and creative collaboration. Teen counselors gain leadership experience through our junior program. Campers develop artistic skills while building friendships in a structured, engaging setting.
Exhibitions
Our galleries host rotating exhibitions featuring local and regional artists. Juried shows, curated collections, and community collaborations highlight diverse mediums including painting, sculpture, and installations. Exhibitions like 'Smash the Cis-Tem' amplify underrepresented voices, while educational programs connect art to social themes.
Financial Aid
Adler Arts Center offers need-based financial aid for arts programs. Subsidies of 25-75% are available for low-income families, veterans, and individuals. The application process considers household income and family size, with awards distributed on a first-come basis to ensure accessibility for all community members.
People
Amy Williams
Executive Director
Amy Williams leads Adler Arts Center's strategic vision and operations. With extensive experience in arts administration, she oversees programs, partnerships, and facility management to advance the center's mission.
Ellen Williams
Programs & Marketing Director
Ellen Williams directs educational programs and marketing initiatives. A teaching artist and curator, she develops curriculum, manages exhibitions, and promotes community engagement through creative outreach and events.
Jena Mertz
Programs & Rental Manager
Jena Mertz coordinates program logistics and facility rentals. She ensures smooth operations for classes, events, and space bookings while supporting program development and participant services.
Katherine McCall
Office Manager
Katherine McCall manages financial operations and administrative functions. She handles billing, payroll, and day-to-day office tasks to maintain efficient organizational infrastructure.
Sarah Cohen
Camp Director
Sarah Cohen oversees summer camp programming. She designs curricula, supervises staff, and ensures safe, engaging experiences for youth participants in Adler's creative education programs.
Questions
What music lessons does Adler Arts Center offer?
We offer private lessons in piano, violin, viola, cello, guitar, bass, ukulele, banjo, and voice for ages 5+. Sessions available in 30, 45, or 60-minute formats.
Are art classes available for beginners?
Yes! Our art classes cater to all skill levels from beginners to advanced artists. Youth and adult programs include drawing, painting, ceramics, and mixed media instruction.
Does Adler provide financial assistance for programs?
We offer need-based financial aid covering 25-75% of tuition costs. Eligibility determined by household income and family size through a simple application process.
Can I visit Adler's exhibitions for free?
All exhibitions are free and open to the public during posted gallery hours. Special events and receptions may require registration but remain accessible to all.
What summer camp options exist for children?
Camp Adler provides themed arts programs for ages 5-11 with daily creative activities. Teen counselors (grades 7-10) can join our junior leadership program.
How do I apply to exhibit at Adler?
Submit exhibition proposals through our website. The Exhibitions Committee reviews submissions for 2D/3D works that align with our mission to showcase diverse artistic voices.
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