They were practicing in the auditorium of Land School, the latest achievement from world-renowned artist Theaster Gates.
"I wanted to create a space that was first for experimentation of all kinds," Gates said.
The Land School is based in the former St. Laurence Elementary School at 72nd Street and Dorchester Avenue in the Grand Crossing neighborhood.
The building was shuttered in 2002, and faced demolition.
Gates, formally trained in urban planning, had, for the past 20 years, acquired properties in the area through his Rebuild Foundation, bringing them back to life as places artists can live and create.
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"We're probably restored upwards of 20 to 25 buildings," Gates said.
Gates also had success with the Stony Island Arts Bank.
But the Land School was his largest project yet.
It took several years and millions of dollars to convert the 40,000-square-foot building into an artists hub.
But Gates says this was a mission with a message: that breathing new life into underserved communities benefits everyone.
"In addition to the basic living that South Siders have, we also deserve to have great culture happening all the time," Gates said.
Gates says he's letting the building determine the best use of the space. But, for now, it's becoming a hub for music.
"Because the auditorium was such an amazing space, we thought it would be great if the auditorium could be an important venue for house, jazz, experimental music," Gates said.