What is Buddy Band?Buddy Band is an inclusive musical group that aims to break down barriers by bringing children with and without disabilities together to make music and to form friendships.
Each meeting is led by two professionals, at least one of whom is a board-certified music therapist. This co-leadership, combined with consistently small group time, allows for deeper social and relationship-building skill work, as well as a true sense of community. Buddy Band concludes with a fun, final performance for friends and families, showcasing the work and growth of the newly formed band! Frequently Asked QuestionsWho is Buddy Band for?
Tuesday Buddy Band is a wonderful option for children ages 4 - 12, and Saturday Buddy Band is open to musicians ages 8 - 15. Individuals with or without disabilities, musical experience, or prior Band participation can register! Where does it happen?
Buddy Band is taking place at ChiME, 1148 W Chicago Ave. If you are interested in learning about how Buddy Band could be integrated at your organization, please click the "Partner Programs" button below. What Results can we expect?
Buddy Band encourages both musical and nonmusical growth in participants. ChiME’s Band leaders will develop an individual goal for each participant and/or group goals for the programs. These goals might be musical, or reflect nonmusical growth in the following areas:
The final result will be a fun performance in which participants will be able to show their family, friends, and community the work of their newly-developed band! What do we need to participate?
No prior experience is needed for participation in this fun-focused ensemble! ChiME will provide each participant with all instruments needed for Buddy Band, as well as a Buddy Band t-shirt! Do parents/caregivers attend buddy band?
Buddy Band is designed so that all participants can be successful. If having a parent, caregiver, or other familiar adult present and participating during group will support the individual in question, then they are more than welcome! Adults can also remain onsite at ChiME during the class, but wait in the Family Room for a more independent Band experience. how do i sign up?
If you have any questions about whether Buddy Band is the right fit for you, please contact our Director of Music Therapy, Alli Dunn, at [email protected]. To register for Tuesday Buddy Band (ages 4 - 12): Click here! To register for Saturday Buddy Band (ages 8 - 15): Click Here! 
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Registration for spring programs is closed. Check out the Buddy Band summer camp! Buddy Band is funded by
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Meet our Buddy Band Team
Everyone CAN in Buddy Band!
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Kelsey Sohrweide, Special Education Teacher at Walsh Elementary, Buddy Band December 2022
"This is the first time my students have participated in something like this, and I truly mean it when I say it was life-changing for them. Thanks for being so inclusive, collaborative, and just joy-filled in our time working together!! We would love to continue participating in Buddy Band/anything else similar in the future.” |
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Lindsay Fredrickson, Executive Director of Chicago Arts and Music Project (CAMP), Buddy Band December 2022
“Thank you all so much for collaborating with us this fall! It was so wonderful to have you join us and an amazing experience for my students as well… I would definitely be open to partnering again in the future. I have so much respect for what all of you do and for making music accessible to people of all abilities! Seeing the faces of the Walsh students during the applause was definitely the highlight of my evening!” |
