The People's Music School
Henry Sparks is a dedicated music educator and professional musician with extensive experience in low brass instruction, currently serving as a Low Brass Faculty member at The People's Music School since July 2023. With a background as a trombonist and private educator, Henry has performed internationally at various public and private events while maintaining a self-employed status since January 2014. In addition to teaching, Henry has held positions such as Substitute Teacher for Chicago Public Schools, Band Assistant at North River Commission, and House Manager at DePaul University School of Music. Henry's academic credentials include a Master of Music in Jazz Studies from DePaul University and a Bachelor of Music in Music Education from Central Washington University.
The People's Music School
The People's Music School is the only completely tuition-free music school in Chicago, and the oldest in the United States. The school was founded in 1976 by Dr. Rita Simó, an accomplished pianist from the Dominican Republic who believed that all children should have access to music education, regardless of their family's socioeconomic status. Today we serve over 1,600 students in the Chicagoland metropolitan area and beyond. Through intensive instruction and performance our students learn more than music. They grow socially, emotionally and intellectually, and develop a foundation of responsibility, self-esteem and purpose. We believe music is transformative and empowers the lives of youth, families and communities.