North by Northwestern reported that as arts education funding wanes—only 55% of U.S. public schools had adequate resources in 2025 according to a National Endowment for the Arts report—the North Shore Choral Society is broadening opportunities for children in Evanston.
The chorus will stage “Handel’s Messiah for Everyone” at the First Presbyterian Church of Evanston on Nov. 14, featuring a full orchestra placed on the floor so young audience members can see the musicians up close, a format intended to break down barriers to orchestral music.
In addition, the society’s Arts Reach Evanston program, launched nine years ago, offers a free eight‑week after‑school residency at the Fleetwood‑Jourdain Community Center where professional artists work with elementary‑aged children on a variety of art forms beyond choral singing.
Although the group faces a transition as the new Foster School opens in the Fifth Ward, leaders say youth attendance remains at an all‑time high and they are committed to maintaining the program despite potential drops in participation.
For more information, visit northbynorthwestern.com.