Discover upcoming events at Artfinix Studios! Engage in music, workshops, and personal growth opportunities. Be part of our vibrant community. Enter Your Email Join Thanks for subscribing! Subscribe For Showcase Updates Join us for an exciting lineup of live performances showcasing the incredible talents of our students and instructors. From seasonal showcases to collaborative concerts, each event highlights the passion and creativity within the Artfinix community. Don't miss out on the magic of music—come celebrate with us! Student Showcases The Takeover — Artfinix Live at Reggie's Rock Club Sat, May 30 Reggies Chicago More info Details Louder Than Spring Student Recital Sat, May 23 Summit More info Details Artfinix Student Recital Sun, Jan 18 Summit More info Details Bats, Ballads & Black Leather: The Ozzy Era Sat, Jan 17 Burr Ridge More info Details Echoes of 27 and The Royal Flush Student Showcase Sat, Sep 06 Burr Ridge More info Details A Vision For The Future: Nurturing The Future Of The Arts Sun, Aug 03 Stadium Club More info Details Artfinix Studios Presents: Soulful Sounds Of Blues Sat, May 24 Chicago More info Details Artfinix Studios Presents: Metal Mayhem Sat, May 24 Reggies More info Details Artfinix Studio Music Recital Sat, May 17 Summit More info Details Student Recital Sun, Jan 19 Artfinix Studios More info Details Classic Rock Pop Fusion Student Showcase Sat, Jan 18 Reggies More info Details Now Thats' What I Call Nostalgia Rock Student Showcase Sat, Jan 18 Reggies More info Details A Night of Holiday Cheer: Movie Magic and Cookie Creations Mon, Dec 16 Artfinix Studios More info Details Elevate Our Music Program Together (Popcorn Fundraiser) Wed, Dec 04 Virtual Popcorn Fundraiser More info Details Artfinix Community Volleyball Competition Sat, Nov 09 Summit More info Details Artfinix Family & Friends Day at Navy Pier! 🎡🎢 Sat, Oct 26 Chicago More info Details Artfinix Scare Prank and Contest! Mon, Oct 14 Artfinix Website! More info Details Artfinix Studios Drawing Contest Mon, Oct 14 Summit More info Details Load More Competitions Showcase your talent in Artfinix's exciting competitions! From art contests to community challenges, our competitions offer a fun way to get involved, win prizes, and share your creativity with others. View Events Field Trips Experience creativity beyond the classroom with Artfinix field trips! Our trips provide immersive, hands-on experiences at local museums, music venues, and cultural centers to inspire and educate. View Trips ARTFINIX SPEAKS SCHEDULE WORKSHOP SCHEDULE 9-10:30 INTERACTIVE PRODUCTION WORKSHOP Artfinix 11-12:30 FINDING YOUR PERSONAL BRAND Online 11-12:30 FINDING YOUR PERSONAL BRAND Online 9-10:30 INTERACTIVE PRODUCTION WORKSHOP Online MOST TRENDING TOPICS Explore the latest trends at Artfinix Studios, where creativity, community, and education intersect. Stay connected with our efforts in community outreach, private lessons, and exciting student showcases as we continue to make a cultural impact through creative expression. Creative Expression Community Outreach Music Lessons Art Workshops Student Showcases Private Lessons Cultural Impact Youth Programs Artist Development Creative Empowerment

Share your experience with Artfinix Studios educators. Rate your instructors and provide feedback to help us maintain the highest standards of teaching and creativity. Welcome to Rate my Educator Rate My Educator is a new tool designed to help us assess the effectiveness of our teaching staff. We understand that many students have strong bonds with their educators, but this evaluation focuses solely on teaching quality within lessons and rehearsals. Please take a moment to carefully consider each question. Thank you for your time and feedback. First name* Last name* Select Primary Instrument* Select Secondary Instrument (If Applies) Select Educator for Primary Instrument* Select Educator for Secondary Instrument (If Applies) Alex Medina Brandon Taylor Sides Jackson Aymar William Burgress Francis Bassett-Dilley Dalilah Rangel The teacher is generally well-organized and prepared for class.* The teacher is generally well-organized and prepared for class. (Secondary Instrument) Strongly Disagree Disagree Somewhat Disagree Somewhat Agree Agree Strongly Agree Class time is used in an efficient and productive manner.* Class time is used in an efficient and productive manner. (Secondary Instrument) Strongly Disagree Disagree Somewhat Disagree Somewhat Agree Agree Strongly Agree The teacher explains the material clearly and in ways that are easy to understand, offers alternative explanations or additional examples, and clears up confusion* The teacher explains the material clearly and in ways that are easy to understand, offers alternative explanations or additional examples, and clears up confusion (Secondary Instrument) Strongly Disagree Disagree Somewhat Disagree Somewhat Agree Agree Strongly Agree The teacher uses a variety of activities (discussion, group work, lecture, labs, technology, etc.) during class time.* The teacher uses a variety of activities (discussion, group work, lecture, labs, technology, etc.) during class time. (Secondary Instrument) Strongly Disagree Disagree Somewhat Disagree Somewhat Agree Agree Strongly Agree The teacher challenges my abilities as a student, and this class requires consistent time, study, and preparation.* The teacher challenges my abilities as a student, and this class requires consistent time, study, and preparation. (Secondary Instrument) Strongly Disagree Disagree Somewhat Disagree Somewhat Agree Agree Strongly Agree In this class, I feel free to ask questions and participate in discussions and activities.* In this class, I feel free to ask questions and participate in discussions and activities. (Secondary Instrument) Strongly Disagree Disagree Somewhat Disagree Somewhat Agree Agree Strongly Agree The teacher offers encouragement and positive reinforcement, as well as constructive criticism. * The teacher offers encouragement and positive reinforcement, as well as constructive criticism. (Secondary Instrument) Strongly Disagree Disagree Somewhat Disagree Somewhat Agree Agree Strongly Agree The teacher is interested in and enthusiastic about teaching this class.* The teacher is interested in and enthusiastic about teaching this class. (Secondary Instrument) Strongly Disagree Disagree Somewhat Disagree Somewhat Agree Agree Strongly Agree The teacher maintains enough classroom discipline so the class and I can learn.* The teacher maintains enough classroom discipline so the class and I can learn. (Secondary Instrument) Strongly Disagree Disagree Somewhat Disagree Somewhat Agree Agree Strongly Agree I feel my teacher is :* Inspiring Helpful Demanding Fair Unfair Unorganized Professional Unprofessional Organized Select all that you believe applies to your educator. I feel my teacher is : (Secondary Instrument) Inspiring Fair Professional Helpful Unfair Unprofessional Demanding Unorganized Organized Select all that you believe applies to your educator. Additional Feedback? Feel free to add your notes below. Submit

Artfinix Works Non-Profit – Dedicated to expanding access to music and arts education, Artfinix Works empowers students from all backgrounds to explore their creativity, develop skills, and achieve their artistic dreams. We make art accessible to all, providing financial aid and hosting inclusive, community-driven events. Artfinix connects artists and families, fostering creativity and giving back through community-focused initiatives. Artfinix Studios enriches the community through music, art, and local events, bringing people together. Where Art Becomes an Experience! A Mission We believe in the transformative power of the arts to uplift and strengthen individuals and communities. We are dedicated to providing affordable, accessible, and deeply inclusive arts education, programs, and resources. We actively welcome people of all races, classes, gender orientations, and religious practices, ensuring that everyone can participate in and benefit from the arts. By breaking down barriers, we cultivate creativity, foster connection, and promote personal growth, ultimately contributing to a more vibrant, just, and diverse society where everyone can thrive through artistic expression. Artfinix Works Foundation empowers individuals and communities through accessible arts programs and initiatives. Artfinix Works Foundation empowers individuals and communities through accessible arts programs and initiatives. Artfinix Works Foundation empowers individuals and communities through accessible arts programs and initiatives. Artfinix Works Foundation empowers individuals and communities through accessible arts programs and initiatives. Support Our Mission Donate Support Our Mission Volunteer Why Art Matters: Our Foundation's Purpose Why Art Matters: Our Foundation's Purpose Why Art Matters: Our Foundation's Purpose Why Art Matters: Our Foundation's Purpose The arts are so much more than just a pastime; they're absolutely essential for human development. At Artfinix Works, we believe the arts are a fundamental pillar of a thriving life and a vibrant community. It's scientifically proven that connecting with our creative side profoundly impacts us cognitively, socially, mentally, emotionally, and psychologically. We've all felt this power – the song that moves you, the artwork that mesmerizes you, or the design that simply brings a smile to your face. These experiences aren't accidental; they're the deliberate creations of imaginative minds, designed to evoke connection and spark wonder. Crown Counseling Reduced Symptoms: Art therapy has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress by 73%, particularly among children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). It has also decreased combat-induced PTSD symptoms in US veterans by 50%. (Crown Counseling) Crown Counseling Improved Coping and Self-Esteem: Engaging in art making helps individuals resolve conflicts, develop interpersonal skills, manage behavior, reduce stress, increase self-esteem and self-awareness, and achieve insight. Social Bio-behavioural Research Group Lower Depression Risk: Adults aged 50 and above who visit cultural venues every few months or more have a 32% lower odds of developing depression over 10 years, and 48% lower odds if they engage monthly or more. Americans for the Arts survey, 2023) Wider Public Opinion: 76% of Americans view the arts as crucial to their personal well-being, and 60% agree that the arts have helped them cope during difficult times. 75% would likely follow a doctor's recommendation to participate in the arts for physical or mental health improvement. How We Work: Features & Advantages How We Work: Features & Advantages How We Work: Features & Advantages How We Work: Features & Advantages Artist Residencies Support emerging and established artists with resources and space. Enables artists to create impactful work and engage directly with communities. Community Workshops Hands-on, accessible art workshops in local neighborhoods. We break down barriers to participation, making art available to all regardless of skill or background. Foster connection and skill development right where people live Educational Partnerships Collaborating with schools to integrate arts into curriculum Ensures sustained exposure to creative learning for future generations, complementing traditional education. Transforming Lives, Building Futures: The Benefits of Your Support Transforming Lives, Building Futures: The Benefits of Your Support Transforming Lives, Building Futures: The Benefits of Your Support Transforming Lives, Building Futures: The Benefits of Your Support Increased Confidence & Expression: Participants discover new talents, express themselves freely, and build self-esteem Art brings people together, bridging divides and creating vibrant community spaces. We enrich lives by making art accessible and sparking joy and innovation across generations Personal Growth & Well-being Personal Growth & Well-being Personal Growth & Well-being Personal Growth & Well-being Stronger Communities Stronger Communities Stronger Communities Stronger Communities Cultural Enrichment Cultural Enrichment Cultural Enrichment Cultural Enrichment Join Us: Make a Difference Join Us: Make a Difference Join Us: Make a Difference Join Us: Make a Difference A Vision Our distinction lies in our commitment to building robust, self-sufficient arts ecosystems across Illinois. We're developing a dynamic system that provides the training, infrastructure, and ongoing support necessary for communities to consistently grow, innovate, and give back through the arts. We believe in empowering communities to not just experience art, but to own and evolve their creative economies for generations to come. Donate Now Volunteer Your Time Partner With Us Explore Our Programs GOALS FOR 2025: 25% Through our targeted arts programs, we aim to see 75% of participating students report an improvement in their self-expression, coping mechanisms for anxiety and depression, and increased confidence in social interactions. 63% Through our dedicated 'Art-to-Career' pathways and resource programs, we aim for 60% of participating clients to secure creative employment or leverage their newly acquired artistic skills to enhance their professional opportunities within six months of program completion. 70% We aim for 70% of participants (current and past students, and engaged professionals) to actively contribute to the evolution of our current and future programming through feedback mechanisms, co-design workshops, or advisory roles, ensuring our initiatives remain highly relevant and impactful.

Artfinix Speaks Rules – This is a space for respectful expression, creativity, and community. Share your voice with honesty, uplift others, and keep discussions positive, inclusive, and free of harmful language. Guidelines and Expectations A great Artfinix Speaks session is one that: Engages the audience: The speaker delivers a captivating and informative presentation that keeps the audience interested and engaged. Sparks conversation: The talk prompts thoughtful discussion and encourages audience participation. Provides value: The speaker offers valuable insights, knowledge, or perspectives that benefit the audience. Is relevant: The topic is timely and relevant to the current art world. Is well-organized: The presentation is well-structured and easy to follow. Is visually appealing: If applicable, the use of multimedia elements enhances the presentation and makes it more enjoyable. Is delivered with passion: The speaker's enthusiasm for the topic is evident and contagious. Ultimately, a great Artfinix Speaks session is one that leaves a lasting impression on the audience and contributes to a vibrant and engaging art community. Artfinix Speaks: What to Avoid To ensure a focused and engaging Artfinix Speaks session, please avoid the following topics and approaches: Self-Promotional Talks: While we value your expertise, Artfinix Speaks is not a platform for personal branding or product promotion. Generic Motivational Speeches: While inspiration is important, we aim for thought-provoking discussions that delve into the nuances of the art world. Overly Personal Narratives: While personal anecdotes can be powerful, they should serve as a means to illustrate broader concepts rather than being the primary focus. Rehashed Content: Avoid presenting material that has been presented at other conferences or events. Commercial Ventures: Artfinix Speaks is a non-profit platform. Fundraising or promoting commercial ventures is not permitted. Paid Speaking Engagements: Speakers will not be compensated for their participation in Artfinix Speaks. Time Commitment: Speakers should be prepared to dedicate approximately 1-2 hours per week to the Artfinix Speaks program between selection and the event date. Expectations of Artfinix Speaks Speakers As an Artfinix Speaks speaker, we expect you to: Be prepared: Research your topic thoroughly and prepare a well-structured presentation. Be engaging: Deliver your presentation with enthusiasm and passion. Be respectful: Treat your audience with courtesy and respect. Be responsive: Answer questions from the audience thoughtfully and honestly. Be punctual: Arrive on time for your presentation. Be professional: Dress appropriately and maintain a professional demeanor. Be supportive: Encourage and support other speakers. By adhering to these expectations, you can contribute to a successful and memorable Artfinix Speaks event. Why Artfinix Speaks is a Great Program for Everyone For Speakers: Share Your Expertise: Get the opportunity to share your knowledge and passion with a wider audience. Network with Others: Connect with like-minded individuals in the art community. Enhance Your Reputation: Build your credibility as an expert in your field. Gain Valuable Experience: Develop your public speaking skills and learn from the experiences of others. For Attendees: Learn from Experts: Gain insights from leading artists, curators, and critics. Expand Your Horizons: Discover new perspectives and ideas within the art world. Be Inspired: Find inspiration for your own artistic journey. Connect with Others: Meet like-minded individuals who share your love of art. For the Art Community: Foster Dialogue: Promote open discussion and exchange of ideas within the art world. Showcase Diverse Voices: Celebrate the diversity of perspectives within the art community. Inspire Innovation: Encourage creativity and innovation through the sharing of new ideas. Strengthen Community: Build a stronger and more connected art community. To be considered for an Artfinix Speaks presentation, the candidate must currently live or work in the Chicago metropolitan area (within Illinois). If you do not meet this requirement, please do not proceed.* Yes No Candidates First name* Candidates Last name Candidate Organization* Candidate Title* Candidate's Email* Which upcoming event are you proposing this idea for? In one or two words, how would the identify your candidate's work (artist, inventor, author, musician etc.)? Tell us about your candidate's IDEA WORTH SPREADING in 255 words or less Upload File Candidate's short bio - 80 words or less - highlights please. Tell us why this candidate is an authority to speak on this topic.* Artfinix Speaks: Evidence-Based Presentations At Artfinix Speaks, we value evidence-based presentations. When developing your talk, consider incorporating: Research: Cite credible sources to support your claims. Data: Use statistics or other quantitative data to illustrate your points. Examples: Provide real-world examples to demonstrate your concepts. Expert opinions: Quote experts in your field to lend weight to your arguments. By grounding your presentation in evidence, you can enhance its credibility and provide valuable insights to your audience. How do you see this idea impacting and being relevant to a wider audience?* Artfinix Speaks: Video Submission If you're submitting your own candidacy, we strongly recommend including a 60-90 second video showcasing your idea and its significance. Share a link to your video on a platform like Dropbox, Google Drive, or YouTube. Please provide a link to a recent photo of the candidate. Please provide any additional links (social media, website, prior talks or videos) that you think would be helpful What is your name? First and Last Name Please* What is your email? * Submit

Artfinix Care Plans Protect your instrument. Choose your level. Three membership tiers built for every type of musician — from the casual player who wants to stay in good standing to the serious artist who demands the best. All plans include priority access and exclusive member rates. Enroll Now Book A Service Instrument Care →Care Plans Membership tiers Three plans. One standard of excellence. Entry Studio Access $19.99 /mo or $199/yr — save 2 months ✓Annual Wellness Check (2 instruments) ✓15% off all labor ✓Priority scheduling ✓10% off supplies —Full setup included —Dedicated technician —Quarterly health report —White-glove intake Enroll in Studio Access Mid-tier Most Popular Studio Preferred $39.99 /mo or $399/yr — save 2 months ✓Annual Wellness Check (2 instruments) ✓20% off all labor ✓Same-week scheduling guarantee ✓1 Full Setup per instrument/yr ✓Dedicated technician ✓Loaner instrument access —Quarterly health report —White-glove intake Enroll in Studio Preferred Flagship Artfinix Elite ✓Unlimited Wellness Checks (4 instruments) ✓25% off all labor ✓48-hr emergency turnaround ✓2 Full Setups per instrument/yr ✓Dedicated technician ✓White-glove intake ✓Quarterly health report ✓Early access to new services Enroll in Artfinix Elite $79.99 /mo or $799/yr — save 2 months All plans billed monthly or annually. Parts, strings, and drum heads are additional on all services. Membership becomes active upon coordinator confirmation. Common questions about Care Plans GOOD TO KNOW Do I still pay for repairs as a member? Yes — your membership covers specific included benefits and gives you a member rate on all other labor. Think of it like Costco: the membership gets you better pricing, but you still pay for what you take home. When does my membership start? Your membership becomes active after a Studio Coordinator confirms your enrollment. Billing begins on your confirmed start date — not when you submit the form. Can I upgrade my plan later? Yes. Speak with your Studio Coordinator at any time to upgrade your tier. Upgrades take effect at your next billing cycle. Do I need to be an Artfinix student? No. Care Plans are open to the community. Current Artfinix students receive priority scheduling automatically as part of their membership. Ready to protect your investment? Pick your plan above or enroll now — a coordinator handles the rest. Enroll Now Back to Instrument Care

About Us – Artfinix Studios is a premier music school dedicated to nurturing creativity, skill, and confidence in every student. Through expert instruction, inspiring programs, and a supportive community, we help aspiring musicians of all ages bring their artistic visions to life. Connect your business with anyone, anywhere Get Started Who We Are It's MORE than Art, It's an EXPERIENCE! The Foundation In 2017, a vision was born — not simply to teach music, but to redefine what music education could be. Founded by Brandon Taylor Sides, Artfinix Studios emerged from a deep conviction that creativity is not a hobby. It is a calling. A profession. A legacy worth building. What began as a bold idea in Summit, IL has grown into a thriving community of artists, educators, and families united by one shared belief — that every student who walks through our doors deserves more than a lesson. They deserve a transformation. We believe the world has lied to creatives long enough. The myth of the "starving artist" — the idea that passion and prosperity cannot coexist — was never a truth. It was a limitation. A ceiling placed on brilliance by those who couldn't imagine what was possible. At Artfinix, we don't accept ceilings. We've watched too many gifted individuals spend years mastering their craft, only to be told they lack experience. We've seen talent go unrewarded, potential go unrecognized, and artists quietly surrender to a system that was never designed with them in mind. Artfinix was built to change that — permanently. What We Believe Our Philosophy We don't offer lessons. We engineer experiences. Every program at Artfinix Studios is intentionally designed to develop the full artist — not just the musician. We believe that true mastery lives at the intersection of technical excellence and personal growth. Our students don't just learn to play — they learn to lead, communicate, persevere, and perform under pressure. These are not soft skills. These are life skills. And they are woven into everything we do. The Artfinix Difference Most music schools hand you a method book and a time slot. We hand you a community. At Artfinix, students are surrounded by credentialed educators who are as invested in who they're becoming as they are in how they're playing. Parents become partners. Families become community. And students become artists who carry themselves with the confidence of someone who knows exactly who they are and where they're going. This is not a transaction. This is a relationship — and we take it seriously. Our Commitment We operate on one principle above all others — a hand up, not a handout. We don't believe in giving students shortcuts. We believe in giving them the tools, the environment, the mentorship, and the stage to rise on their own terms. Our role is not to carry them to greatness. Our role is to build the road and walk beside them as they get there. When our students win, we win. And at Artfinix — our students win. You didn't find Artfinix by accident. Something brought you here — a child with a spark, a student ready for more, a family looking for a community that takes artistry as seriously as academics. That something was right. Your experience starts here. Book A Trial Lesson

Have questions or need more information? Reach out to Artfinix Studios through our Contact Us page. We're here to assist with inquiries about programs, events, donations, and more. Contact us First name Last name Phone* Email* Message* Submit

Access exclusive content, resources, and networking opportunities as a member of Artfinix Studios. Join our community of artists and creators to collaborate, learn, and grow together.

Get to know the talented students and dedicated staff at Artfinix Studios. Our Students + Staff page highlights the people who make our community thrive, showcasing their creativity, passion, and commitment to the arts. Load More Load More

Behind the Scenes at Artfinix – A visual journey into the heart of our studio. Explore candid images, rehearsals, creative sessions, and the everyday moments that bring our music and art to life. Load More

Book the Artfinix Tour Band for Your Next Event Elevate your private or corporate event with live music by the talented student musicians of the Artfinix Tour Band. Trained across a variety of genres and performance styles, our young artists bring professionalism, passion, and vibrant energy to every stage. Perfect for receptions, galas, company parties, and more—support emerging talent while giving your guests an unforgettable musical experience. Artfinix Vanguard Chicago's next generation of live performers The Artfinix Vanguard Artfinix Studios' Premier Touring Ensemble The Artfinix Vanguard is the elite performance ensemble of Artfinix Studios — a select group of advanced young musicians chosen by audition and invitation only, representing the highest standard of artistry, discipline, and stage presence that our studio has to offer. These are not students learning to perform. These are performers ready for your stage. Available for Booking The Artfinix Vanguard is available for a wide range of professional engagements across the Chicagoland area and beyond. Whether you are looking for a dynamic live music experience for your event, a culturally rich performance for your community, or a polished ensemble to elevate your brand — the Vanguard delivers. We proudly accept bookings for: 🎵 Local & Community Events — festivals, block parties, neighborhood showcases, cultural celebrations, and civic gatherings 🏢 Corporate Events & Brand Activations — company gatherings, product launches, holiday parties, networking events, and executive functions 🎬 Commercial & Media Opportunities — brand campaigns, promotional content, live recordings, film, and digital media productions 🎓 Educational Institutions — school events, assemblies, arts programs, university showcases, and music education partnerships ⛪ Faith & Community Organizations — worship experiences, fundraisers, galas, and special ceremonies 🎭 Private & Specialty Events — weddings, receptions, milestone celebrations, and curated private performances To book, please contact us at Brandon.ts@artfinixworks.org Venues & Promoters Booking the Vanguard? View Our Press Kit → Performance history, photos, setlist, and tech rider — all in one place.