Our world-renowned fellowship programs empower emerging professional classical pianists and string players, classical singers, composers, and jazz instrumentalists to refine their craft, collaborate with peers, and elevate their musicianship to new heights.
The tuition-free experience at Ravinia includes housing and meals, plus instruction from a world-class faculty of headlining artists and scholars. Performance opportunities include a mix of public master classes with renowned guest artists, concerts programmed from repertoire chosen by fellows, and concerts curated by the Steans Institute’s faculty.
The Steans Institute provides more than artistic training: we are a community where talent meets opportunity, and passion becomes performance.
The namesake of the institute, Lois M. Steans was immersed in classical music as a pianist and listener from childhood, and she raised her family in that experience at Ravinia. Ravinia honors Lois as a lover and maker of music, whose spirit of generosity continues to fortify the Steans Institute.
Upcoming ConcertsWatch Summer 2025 Performances
The Steans Institute consists of four core programs designed to foster collaboration and experiential learning.
The Bridges Composition Competition invites young composers worldwide to explore the fusion of jazz and classical music. Winners of the David Baker Prize receive $2,500, mentorship with Jazz Artistic Directors, and a premiere performance at Ravinia.
The Jazz Program focuses on composition and collaboration. Fifteen fellows rehearse, experiment, and create under expert guidance, forming quintets to premiere their original works at the Jazz Grandstand concert.
The Piano & Strings Program brings about 30 musicians together for an immersive study of classical sonatas and chamber music. Through intensive rehearsals and expert guidance, they refine their craft, interpretation, and creative insight.
The Singers Program offers 15 classical vocalists an immersive journey into art song, focusing on style, technique, language, and performance. Fellows receive personalized mentorship from renowned musicians, fostering artistic and career growth.
Your gift directly fuels the artistic growth of the next generation of leading classical and jazz musicians and brings their performances to life with free and low-cost concerts all summer long. As a Steans donor, you can enjoy Ravinia summer season benefits the same as contributing to the Annual Fund.
