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Experimental Sound Studio

Chicago, IL, United States

Founded in 1986 as a space for experimental audio-based production and presentation, Experimental Sound Studio (ESS) is the only nonprofit in the Midwest dedicated entirely to the sonic arts. ESS encourages artists to experiment across genres, working closely with others in Chicago and internationally in experimental music, media, contemporary, and performing arts scenes.

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Grant history

Year awarded: 2025
Period: 2 years
Amount awarded: $100,000
Purpose: General Operating Support

Year awarded: 2023
Period: 1 year
Amount awarded: $40,000
Purpose: Creative Audio Archive Public Program Pilot
Notes: Funding supported a suite of pilot community engagement programs within its Creative Audio Archive (CAA). CAA houses nine collections of 4,000+ recordings and sonic art ephemera documenting Chicago’s experimental music landscape of the latter half of the 20th century.