Lara Madden Hughes

Violinist Lara Madden Hughes is a dynamic performer, dedicated arts administrator, and passionate music educator whose artistic journey spans the United States and abroad. A native of River Forest, Illinois, Lara began her musical training at the age of three, laying the foundation for a lifelong dedication to the craft. Her early talent led her to the Merit School of Music conservatory program, which paved the way for advanced studies. She holds a Bachelor of Music in Violin Performance from Indiana University’s Jacobs School of Music and a Master of Music from DePaul University.

Lara’s artistry has been shaped by a passion for cross-cultural connection and intensive summer festivals, including the Aspen Music Festival and School, the Hundisburg Summer Music Academy in Germany, and the Music Masters Course Japan. An equally dedicated educator and champion for community engagement, she served on the faculty at The People’s Music School, held a Violin Fellowship with Community MusicWorks in Providence, Rhode Island, and mentored young talent through the New England Conservatory's BEAM program.

Blending her musical excellence with strong leadership skills, Lara has managed operations for the University of Chicago’s Department of Music. She continues to enrich the cultural landscape as a performing member of the Civic Orchestra of Chicago alongside various regional symphonies.