Business Details
Transform Lives Through Music Education in Chicago
Merit School of Music has dedicated over 45 years to transforming lives through accessible, high-quality music education. Our mission centers on removing barriers that prevent young people from achieving musical and personal excellence. We cultivate a diverse community where students from 139 Chicago zip codes learn together, fostering collaboration and cultural exchange. Our nationally accredited programs, including private lessons, group classes, and audition-based conservatory tracks, are led by passionate instructors recognized as some of the best in Chicago. Financial accessibility remains a core value, with 80% of students receiving need-based aid, instrument rentals, or free in-school programming. We measure success through our 100% college acceptance rate for conservatory graduates and the lifelong skills our students develop.Through partnerships with community organizations and schools, we extend our impact across Chicagoland, ensuring socioeconomic diversity remains central to our mission. Our teaching artists combine technical expertise with mentorship, creating an environment where musical growth parallels personal development. Annual events like the Play On benefit concert and Dia de los Muertos celebration strengthen community engagement while showcasing student achievements. As a nonprofit institution, we remain committed to evolving with our students' needs while maintaining our founding principles of excellence, inclusivity, and innovation.
Services
Private Lessons
Early Childhood Classes
Summer Camps
Group Classes
Conservatory Programs
Highlights and features
- 45+ years of proven excellence in music education
- Instructors recognized as Chicago's best music teachers
- Diverse community spanning 139 Chicago zip codes
- 80% of students receive financial assistance or aid
- 100% college acceptance rate for conservatory graduates
Associations and certifications
- Accrediting Commission for Community and Precollegiate Arts Schools
What people say
Fantastic environment
Changed my life
Best music school ever
Passionate teachers
Diverse community
Services
Private Lessons
Personalized music instruction tailored to individual skill levels and goals. Our experienced teachers provide focused guidance for students aged 4 to adult, covering all instruments and vocal training. Lessons emphasize technical mastery while nurturing artistic expression and confidence through customized curricula.
Early Childhood Classes
Developmentally appropriate music programs for children aged 0-8. These classes build foundational musical skills through interactive play, rhythm exercises, and basic instrument exploration. Designed to spark lifelong musical interest while supporting cognitive and social development in young learners.
Summer Camps
Immersive music experiences for ages 6-18 during school breaks. Camps combine ensemble playing, theory instruction, and performance opportunities in a collaborative environment. Participants develop technical skills while building friendships with peers who share their musical passion through intensive daily programming.
Group Classes
Skill-based group instruction for ages 5-18 focusing on ensemble playing and collaborative musicianship. Classes emphasize teamwork, listening skills, and performance preparation while maintaining individual technical development within a supportive peer environment that mirrors professional musical settings.
Conservatory Programs
Rigorous, audition-based programs for serious young musicians aged 10-18. These conservatory tracks provide professional-level instruction with performance opportunities, masterclasses, and college preparation. Designed to develop technical excellence and artistic maturity for students pursuing music as a career path.
Questions
What age groups do Merit's programs serve?
Our programs cater to students aged 0-18, with adult lessons also available. Early Childhood classes start at age 0, while Conservatory programs accept students aged 10-18.
Are financial aid options available?
Yes, 80% of students receive need-based tuition relief, low-cost instrument rentals, or free in-school programming to ensure accessible music education for all economic backgrounds.
How do I schedule a private lesson?
Contact our admissions team through the website or call 312-786-9428 to discuss availability and instructor matching for personalized lesson scheduling.
What makes Merit different from other music schools?
We combine 45+ years of experience with a commitment to diversity (139 Chicago zip codes represented) and proven college success (100% conservatory graduates attend college).
Do you offer summer programs?
Yes, our Summer Camps for ages 6-18 include ensemble playing, theory instruction, and performance opportunities in an intensive, collaborative environment with daily programming.
Reviews (7)
Jennifer Shcherban
May 13, 2022
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I send my 8 month old daughter to the bilingual music class. She really loves it! She has a lot of fun playing with other babies and banging on the instruments. The instructors do a great job keeping her entertained. I like the convenient location and how there are lots of class times so I can find something that works with her nap schedule.
Dr. Holliday
Apr 13, 2022
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Merit has been a great experience for both my girls. My oldest met some wonderful instructors and friends And is now in cello performance with Northwester. My youngest has been willing to continue voice lessons that she had loss interest in. The summer program help rebuild her confidence and encouraged her to stick with it. The instructors and students really came at the perfect time for my girls. So happy to have Merit as a program for my girls!
Brandon Stigger
Jul 28, 2021
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If this is the original Merit off of Dearborn st downtown chicago do you still show or have videos of recitals and duets film on Chanel 11? Best times of Chicago!
Wendy Clinard
May 02, 2021
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My family loves Merit Music. My daughter studied with Ms. Elena for 12 years. Her instruction was caring and deeply informed; Ms. Elena is an inspiring artists. My nephew and neighbors have enthusiastically attended various classes over the years. I highly recommend Merit.
Jenna Boyle
Apr 08, 2021
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Our toddler has been in Ms. Annaeka's class for several sessions, and I can't say enough about her. She's a wonderful teacher who understands and appreciates young children, and she's worked incredibly hard to make virtual classes during COVID a good experience. Our son looks forward to class each week and is developing a love of music and movement thanks to Ms. Annaeka! If your child or family has the opportunity to take one of her classes, I highly recommend it.
Joe T.
Mar 30, 2021
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Our Little babies looooove LOOOOOVVVEEE LOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOVVVVVVVEEEEEEEEEEE this class and look forward to it all week. We were wondering how well the engagement would work during COVID, but the instructors were amazing and super engaging and were able to help our kids stay focused and engaged and excited. Highly recommend this class!
Adam Stillman
Mar 29, 2021
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We've loved Merit's virtual music class for our 1.5yo son. Exposure to music (and in both English and Spanish) at such a young age is so important. He loves singing, dancing and playing "instruments" with Ms. Sally!
