Business Details
47 Years
experience
Your Trusted Chicago Music School Since 1979
Merit School of Music has been transforming lives through music education for over 45 years. Founded in 1979, we are a nationally accredited institution dedicated to removing barriers to high-quality music education for Chicago-area youth. Our passionate teaching artists provide personalized instruction across private lessons, group classes, and summer camps, serving students from 139 zip codes. We prioritize accessibility through financial aid, payment plans, and instrument rentals, ensuring 80% of students receive support.Our programs span early childhood to advanced conservatory training, fostering a diverse community where students build technical skills, creativity, and lifelong connections. With 100% of Conservatory graduates accepted to college, we empower students to excel both musically and personally. Our three Chicago locations and community partnerships reflect our commitment to inclusivity, equity, and excellence in music education.
Services
Private Lessons
Group Classes
Summer Camps
Early Childhood Programs
Conservatory Training
Instrument Rentals
Financial Aid Programs
Community Outreach
Audition Preparation
Music Theory Classes
Details
- Year established: 1979
Highlights and features
- 45+ years of excellence in music education with nationally accredited programs
- Expert faculty recognized as Chicago's best music educators
- Serves students from 139 zip codes with diverse backgrounds and skill levels
- Provides financial aid, payment plans, and instrument rentals to 80% of students
- 100% college acceptance rate for Conservatory graduates
Associations and certifications
- Accrediting Commission for Community and Precollegiate Arts Schools
What people say
Expert teachers
Diverse community
Life-changing programs
Financial support available
Performance opportunities
Services
Private Music Lessons
Personalized music instruction tailored to individual goals and skill levels. Students receive focused attention from experienced teachers, building technical proficiency and artistic expression. Lessons available for all instruments and voice, with flexible scheduling options across Chicago locations.
Early Childhood Programs
Developmental music classes for babies through age 8. Curriculum includes song, movement, and instrument play to build musical awareness while enhancing motor skills and language development. Programs foster creativity and social interaction through engaging, age-appropriate activities.
Summer Music Camps
Week-long day camps combining music instruction with ensemble performance. Students work with professional educators while making friends across Chicago. Offerings include instrument-specific intensives, choir tracks, and electives like improvisation and songwriting for ages 5-18.
Conservatory Training
Tuition-free, audition-based program for serious pre-college musicians. Includes weekly masterclasses, theory instruction, and large ensemble participation. Graduates consistently gain admission to top conservatories and universities, with 100% college acceptance rate.
Community Outreach
Music education initiatives reaching underserved Chicago schools. Provides access to instruments, group instruction, and performance opportunities. Focuses on equity and inclusion, serving students from 139 zip codes through partnerships with local institutions.
People
Claire Bachman
Department Co-Chair: Strings
Experienced cello instructor with decades of teaching expertise, mentoring students from beginners to conservatory level. Advocate for music education's transformative impact on youth development.
Dr. Elena Doubovitskaya
Department Chair: Piano
Renowned piano educator and performer, specializing in classical technique and music theory. Leads piano faculty in developing comprehensive curricula for students at all proficiency levels.
Alexander Beltran
Ensemble Director: Jazz Ensembles
Jazz specialist with extensive performance and teaching experience, directing combos and big bands. Focuses on improvisation and ensemble dynamics for advanced student musicians.
Sally Blandn
Early Childhood Program Director
Early childhood music education expert, designing curriculum that develops foundational skills through play-based learning. Specializes in creating engaging environments for young learners.
Dy'Anna Augustus
Director of Student Services
Oversees student support operations, ensuring accessible programming and family engagement. Focuses on creating inclusive pathways for students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.
Questions
What music programs are available for beginners?
We offer beginner-friendly classes for all ages, including Early Childhood programs, group lessons, and introductory private instruction with patient, experienced teachers.
How does financial aid work?
80% of students receive need-based aid through tuition relief, payment plans, or instrument rentals. Applications must be submitted before registration to determine eligibility.
What instruments can students learn?
We teach all major instruments including piano, strings, woodwinds, brass, percussion, guitar, voice, and jazz specializations. Private and group instruction available.
Are there performance opportunities?
Students participate in recitals, ensemble performances, and community events. Conservatory students perform with professional musicians and at Chicago venues.
How are teachers selected?
Faculty undergo rigorous vetting for expertise and teaching ability. Many instructors perform professionally while maintaining active private studios and ensemble leadership roles.
What makes Merit unique?
Combines 45+ years of experience with community focus, serving 139 zip codes. Offers financial support while maintaining high artistic standards and personalized instruction.
