Winnetka’s Musical Legacy: A Chicago Recording Studio’s Deep Dive into History

The Roots of Music Education in Winnetka

I have always found the story of music education in Winnetka fascinating. Back in 1931, Dorothy Dushkin and David Dushkin started The School of Musical Arts and Crafts in a simple farmhouse at Willow and Rosewood streets. They had just married the year before and wanted to create a place where students could learn through hands-on activities. Their approach included group playing, training on recorders, and even building instruments in a workshop. Over time, this small school grew and changed. Today, it is known as the Music Institute of Chicago, one of the largest community music schools in Illinois. It holds accreditation from the National Association of Schools of Music, making it a key spot for anyone serious about learning instruments or voice in the Chicago area.

A Jazz Tune That Put Winnetka on the Map

One fun piece of Winnetka’s musical past comes from 1938. Musicians Bob Haggart and Ray Bauduc were part of the Bob Crosby Orchestra when they came up with the jazz song “Big Noise from Winnetka.” It started as an improvisation during a live show—a duet with bass, drums, and whistling. Haggart played the bass while whistling, and Bauduc handled the drums. They chose the title because Winnetka had a nice ring to it, even though neither lived there. The song became a standard in jazz circles, recorded many times over the years. Haggart and Bauduc had long careers playing with various bands, but this track remains a highlight that ties directly to the village’s name.

Rock’s Early Spark from a Local High School

Winnetka also played a role in rock music through guitarist Mike Bloomfield. In 1959, as a student at New Trier High School, he got expelled for performing a rock song at a school assembly. That moment did not slow him down. Bloomfield went on to make his mark in the blues and rock scenes. He contributed guitar work to Bob Dylan’s album “Highway 61 Revisited” in 1965. That same year, he backed Dylan at the Newport Folk Festival, where the electric set caused a mini riot among folk fans. Bloomfield’s style influenced many players who followed, showing how a Chicago suburb like Winnetka could affect the annals of history.

Today’s Sounds at the Winnetka Music Festival

These days, music stays strong in Winnetka thanks to the Winnetka Music Festival. Val Haller started it in 2017 through her platform ValsList. Back in 2007, as a local mom who enjoyed concerts, Val began sharing playlists on iTunes for adults with busy schedules. ValsList expanded to include house concerts where people could tip the artists. Then, with her husband Mark Haller and partner Scott Myers, they turned it into a full festival. Now in its ninth year, the event happens in downtown Winnetka with multiple stages, local bands, food trucks, and activities for families. It draws crowds looking for new music in a relaxed setting on Chicago’s North Shore.

As the owner of Untold Stories Recordings, a top Chicago recording studio, I value neighborhoods like Winnetka for their deep ties to music. If you are a musician seeking a professional space to record your work, consider booking a session at our Chicago music studio. We focus on high-quality sound and reliable service to help bring your ideas to life.

Explore Winnetka’s music history from 1930s schools to today’s festivals, highlighting Chicago recording studio connections in this North Shore spot.