On The Spot: An Old Town School Video Series

Inspiring stories of music and dance from the Old Town School community

Go behind the scenes and meet some of the incredible faculty, staff, students and characters of the Old Town School family. Updated weekly-ish.

On the Spot: Colby Maddox

In this episode of On the Spot, Colby Maddox, Fiddle and Mandolin teaching artist and Old Town School Resource Center Manager, discusses the joy and significance of rediscovering music education as an adult.

On the Spot: Aerin Tedesco

If you've ever stopped at the Old Town School front desk to register for classes, buy concert tickets, ask a question, or just to say hello, you'll probably recognize Aerin Tedesco! But did you also know that Aerin has taught several ensembles over the years, including the Indigo Girls and Women's Acoustic Ensembles? Learn more about Aerin in this episode of On the Spot!

On the Spot: Mike Austin

Get to know Mike Austin, Old Town School instructor since 2000, and learn how he got started with the bodhrán in this episode of On the Spot. Mike describes the Old Town School as a place where folks can come not only be a part of a community but also achieve something for themselves.

On the Spot: Jacob Sweet

Guitar and Ensemble teaching artist Jacob Sweet has been teaching at Old Town School for 21 years and is a recipient of the 2017 Distinguished Teaching Artist Awards. In this episode, Jacob describes his favorite moment along the Old Town School student journey: experiencing the first time they sing in front of others.

On the Spot: Liz Chidester

Meet Liz! Ukulele, Wiggleworms, Voice, Piano, and Guitar teaching artist Liz Chidester started at Old Town School as a 2015 Summer Camp counselor. In this episode, Liz tells a story about the power music has to heal and connect.

On the Spot: Reggio "the Hoofer" McLaughlin

Chicago icon Reggio "the Hoofer" McLaughlin has been teaching tap dance for kids and adults at Old Town School since 1994 and is a recipient of the 2015 Distinguished Teaching Artist Awards. He has performed around the world, raising the recognition and admiration of tap dancing in the global community. In this episode of On the Spot, Reggio describes how he fell in love with tap and how it makes him feel.

Introducing On the Spot

We’re excited to unveil our new video series, On the Spot. Check back here and on social media for updates and more tales from our inspiring and charming community of talented folks.