Checking out Free Music in the Community: Lincolnwood Chamber Orchestra Concert at Republic Bank

 One of the best aspects about living and exploring in Chicagoland is discovering that some of the best community events are budget-friendly or even completely free. In the summertime, these are everywhere, with plenty of options to choose from. There could be outdoor concerts along the skyline downtown, in your local park, or even indoors so that you can beat the feels-like 105-degree, popsicle-melting heat we’ve had this week.

 

We found one related to America’s 250th birthday and attended an after-hours networking event hosted by the Lincolnwood Chamber of Commerce at Republic Bank in the Skokie/Lincolnwood area on the north side. The combined networking and performance created a unique opportunity to enjoy live classical music with food in a classy, newly renovated bank setting. It was sponsored by Loeber Motors as a free community event; it was pretty fancy, and because of the local nature, it was not too crowded (Bingo!).

 

Attending this was a pleasant surprise because of how effortless it was to find indoor options that were unique and fun while the humidity raged outside. Whether you were there to connect with local professionals or simply appreciate the music, it was a reminder that community events don't always have to be large festivals or concerts in the park to leave a lasting impression.

 

The orchestra is celebrating its 30th Anniversary, and the performance was its rendition of the “Greatest Hits of 1776”. As their sound filled the auditorium with beautiful classical music from the bank mezzanine, the traffic of Touhy Avenue cars and buses bustled silently in the background through the window backdrop behind the ensemble. It was as if we turned down the volume of the street and turned up the volume of the orchestra to cover it in a sort of silent film. Just a snapshot of a summer afternoon on a Tuesday before the sun went down, and we could all exhale from the scorching heat. One of their songs even showcased a typewriter that punched along to the beat with precise percussion. See the video clip included in this post! It gave attendees a chance to slow down and enjoy an evening centered on the arts, highlighting our week! These experiences help us stay connected and vibrant, and are worth uncovering before the solstice rolls into autumn.

 

The next events that the Lincolnwood Chamber Orchestra is playing at are listed on the American Music Festivals website (https://www.americanmusicfestivals.org/).

If you're looking for affordable ways to enjoy live music around Chicago, keep an eye on events hosted by local chambers of commerce, community organizations, arts groups, and what is hosted by local businesses. You might discover a hidden gem just around the corner!

Chicago Ladies Loop Tip: Don't overlook networking events, art exhibits, and cultural programs throughout the year that are open to the public.

Have you attended a ‘local gem’ you discovered in your community? A concert or event that surprised you? We'd love to hear about it so we can post it for the next time!