Former Southport and Clark Street 7-11 to Transform into a Music School and Venue According to Nonprofit’s Proposal

A nonprofit music school in Lakeview is proposing a zoning change to convert a 7-Eleven into a multifunctional space for teaching, performance, and socializing. Access Contemporary Music, established in 2004, currently operates three music schools in Avondale, Rogers Park, and Ravenswood. Due to pandemic-related venue closures and difficulties in booking spaces, they aim to repurpose the vacant 7-Eleven storefront at 4116 N. Clark St. into a music school with an auditorium for student showcases.

The project necessitates a zoning alteration as the establishment would include a bar for patrons attending performances. The nonprofit has secured a community development grant from the city covering 75% of the buildout expenses. However, finalizing the lease with the landlord is pending.

If plans proceed smoothly, the transformed music school could open by fall or early next year. Seth Boustead, the founder, envisions the space as a dynamic hub for music education and performance, catering to various age groups and skill levels. The chosen Lakeview location is strategically situated and accessible to surrounding neighborhoods.

The proposed facility will feature classrooms and a venue accommodating approximately 50 people. Performance nights are planned from Thursday to Sunday, with operations ending by 10 p.m. On-site parking for 20 vehicles will be provided, according to the 46th Ward’s website.

Access Contemporary Music’s initiatives extend beyond traditional schooling. They organize events like the Thirsty Ears Festival, the city’s sole classical music street festival, and collaborate with the Music Box Theater for an annual film festival where live classical music accompanies silent films.

With the decline in available venues post-pandemic, establishing a dedicated space becomes crucial for Access Contemporary Music and other local music groups. The proposed venue aims to fill this gap by providing a centralized platform for performances, benefiting both students and artists alike.