Forte Arts Center is where the arts meet purpose, shaping lives, building community, and empowering students across Grundy and Will Counties.
For over 30 years, Forte Arts Center has been a cornerstone in the community, offering more than just dance, music, and tumbling instruction, it has been a place where students grow into confident, compassionate individuals. Founded in 1993 by Pam Simpson, Forte has consistently raised the bar in arts education, building a strong legacy of excellence while fostering an environment where students not only become exceptional performers but also empowered individuals. With a focus on building life skills such as teamwork, perseverance, and self-confidence, Forte Arts Center continues to inspire its students to reach their fullest potential.
What truly sets Forte Arts Center apart is its deep commitment to making every student feel valued. It’s not just about teaching dance steps, musical notes, or tumbling techniques; it’s about creating a space where each individual is seen, heard, and celebrated. Whether you’re a toddler taking your first class or an adult dancer rediscovering your passion, the Forte team ensures that everyone feels at home. This family-first philosophy has created a lasting bond between the studio and its students, one that spans generations and transforms lives.
Pam Simpson, the visionary founder of Forte Arts Center, is the heartbeat of the organization. With over 40 years of experience in education and entrepreneurship, Pam has led Forte with a bold vision rooted in love and compassion. Under her leadership, Forte has flourished, earning recognition both locally and nationally. Pam has been honored as Member of the Year by More Than Just Great Dancing! and received the Woman of Distinction Award for being a Community Leader in Morris, Illinois. She’s also a sought-after speaker at renowned events like Dance Life Teacher Conference, More Than Just Great Dancing Events, and Revolution’s Energize Conference, sharing her expertise and passion with educators nationwide.
But what truly sets Forte Arts Center apart from other area dance studios is its commitment to creating not just great dancers or musicians, but great people. “We teach life through the arts,” says Pam. “The skills we instill, confidence, respect, perseverance, are the foundation for our students’ success both on and off the stage.” This philosophy is evident in everything they do, from the personalized attention each student receives to the community events that bring families together. Forte is a place where people matter, and this is why families choose to return year after year, making it more than just a studio, it becomes a second home.
The impact of Forte extends far beyond the walls of the studio. The Jewel Buttry Memorial Fund, established in memory of Pam’s father, is an example of how the studio gives back to the community. The fund provides scholarships, supports local families, and funds a micro food pantry to help those in need. It’s just one example of how Forte continuously invests in the community it serves, using the arts to make a difference in the lives of others.
At Forte Arts Center, the arts are used as a powerful tool to not only teach students how to perform but also to cultivate confidence, leadership, and a sense of belonging. The studio offers classes for all ages, from toddlers starting their dance journey to adults returning to rediscover their love of movement and music. Each program is designed to meet students where they are, offering a nurturing and inclusive environment where they can grow at their own pace. Forte’s programs aren’t just about learning a specific skill; they’re about building life skills, making memories, and becoming part of something bigger.
But it’s not just the students who thrive at Forte. The staff at Forte Arts Center is made up of passionate educators who are committed to their students’ growth. Through programs like Forte Faculty Foundations, Working Genius training, and continuing education, Forte ensures that their teachers and staff are always learning, growing, and equipped to provide the best possible experience for their students and their families. Many of the instructors at Forte started as students themselves, coming up through the ranks of the studio. This emphasis on developing talent from within creates a culture of mentorship, accountability, and excellence that runs deep throughout the organization.
Beyond teaching technical skills, Forte focuses on building lifelong relationships. The community is central to everything Forte does. Alumni stay connected, parents advocate for the studio, and the team members grow into leaders and mentors. “Forte is a family,” says Pam. “When you walk through our doors, you’re not just a student, you’re part of something much bigger. We’re united by our love of the arts and our commitment to supporting one another.”
Whether through its state-of-the-art facilities, its innovative programs, or its unwavering commitment to the values of community and care, Forte Arts Center stands as a shining example of what happens when the arts meet purpose. Over the past 33 years, the studio has proven that the arts have the power to change lives, build confidence, and unite people across all walks of life. Forte isn’t just a place to dance, tumble, or sing, it’s a place to belong, to grow, and to discover your voice.
As Forte continues to expand its offerings and impact, the studio remains deeply committed to its roots in the community. Through its various outreach programs, including the Jewel Buttry Memorial Fund and local partnerships, Forte will continue to be a place where artistry meets purpose and where every student is empowered to shine on stage and in life.
To learn more about Forte Arts Center and the incredible programs they offer, visit their website at www.forteartscenter.com. You can also find them on Facebook at @Forteartscenter, Instagram at @forteartscenter and TikTok at @forte_arts_center.
