VanderCook College of Music Celebrates 100 Years of Music Education

Kimberly Farris, the 7th President, discusses the college's history, mission, and upcoming Inaugural Gala

Apr. 6, 2026 at 2:42am

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VanderCook College of Music, one of the nation's leading institutions in music education, is celebrating its 100th anniversary. Kimberly Farris, the college's 7th President, discusses the school's rich history, its commitment to training the next generation of music educators, and the significance of the upcoming Inaugural Gala on April 25th.

Why it matters

As music education faces challenges in many school districts, VanderCook's century-long legacy of preparing highly skilled music teachers is more important than ever. The college's focus on providing access to music programs for underserved communities through initiatives like 'One City' also highlights its role in supporting music's positive impact on children and communities.

The details

Founded in 1909 by Hale Ascher VanderCook, a musician, composer, and cornetist, the college started with basic mail-order trumpet lessons. Over time, the program grew, and in 1928, VanderCook was incorporated as a college of music education. Today, the college offers a comprehensive music curriculum, training students in band, choir, general music, and orchestra.

  • VanderCook College of Music was founded in 1909.
  • The college was incorporated as a college of music education in 1928.
  • The Inaugural Gala is scheduled for April 25, 2026.

The players

Kimberly Farris

The 7th President of VanderCook College of Music, who previously served as the Director of Admissions and taught graduate and undergraduate courses at the college. She has 28 years of public school teaching experience, including teaching and conducting band, jazz, and marching band students.

Hale Ascher VanderCook

The founder of VanderCook College of Music, who started the school in 1909 with basic mail-order trumpet lessons. He was a musician, composer, and cornetist who realized the community was looking for music teachers and grew the program over time.

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What they’re saying

“Hale Ascher VanderCook started the school in 1909, beginning with basic mail-order trumpet lessons. Over time, the program grew, and in 1928, VanderCook was incorporated as a college of music education.”

— Kimberly Farris, President, VanderCook College of Music

“This gala is a celebration of what we do in Chicago. Art Norman is our host for the evening, and Mark Gonte, Bears sports reporter, is a special guest.”

— Kimberly Farris, President, VanderCook College of Music

What’s next

The Inaugural Gala on April 25, 2026 will feature a variety of musical performances by VanderCook students and special guest artists, showcasing the college's commitment to music education.

The takeaway

VanderCook College of Music's century-long legacy of preparing highly skilled music teachers and providing access to music education for underserved communities underscores the vital role of music in shaping young minds and enriching communities.