About Intonation

Intonation works with the youth of Chicago to experience making music on their own terms, leading to personal growth and the enrichment of their communities.

Intonation kids explore their limitless potential by learning to play instruments and forming their own rock bands. Offered in partnership with schools, park districts, and community organizations, our year-round classes make music accessible to children by providing them with instruments, instruction, mentorship, and the chance to perform on stages across the city. Each Intonation student takes part in a personal and team approach to practice, setting goals and problem solving; and over time, they gain the confidence to take charge of their direction and seek out new experiences.


About the Associate Board

The mission of the Intonation Associate Board is to enhance organizational capacity by providing  professional skills and expertise, raising funds, and spreading awareness to new audiences. Our highly-committed and growing group has a number of signature projects, including a quarterly virtual music trivia night, annual participation in a 5k race, support for the annual Gala, and fielding an average-skilled bocce ball team. Ultimately, the goal of the Associate Board is to form a diverse group that will help Intonation enrich the lives of Bronzeville youth and make a positive impact in the Bronzeville community.


Who We Are Looking For  

The Intonation Associate Board is looking for new members who will magnify our capacity and increase the diversity of our skills and experience. Most importantly, we are looking for people who are excited about youth development, pop music, and music education. Applicants should be excited about actively shaping the next chapter of the Associate Board, and be willing to commit to monthly meetings, volunteering at events in Bronzeville, and to serving for at least two years. Members typically spend about one hour a week on Associate Board business. We hope to welcome new members who can help strengthen connections to the Bronzeville community.


Membership Expectations

- Model Intonation values: Accessibility of music and instruction and mentorship, and development of goal setting, problem solving, and confidence
- Commit to 2 years of board service
- Participate in monthly Associate Board meetings
- Secure $500 through personal donations (“give”) or from other sources (“get”)
- Contribute to the planning of one Associate Board event
- Provide five additional (intentional, network-growing) contacts for the Intonation mailing list