About
Merit School of Music offers group classes and ensembles, early childhood music classes, private one-on-one music lessons, summer camps, and a conservatory program. It also offers Merit Music in Communities, an in-school music education program.
Programs
- Group Classes & Ensembles — Ages 5 to 18 · Music classes and ensembles for kids and teens; beginners welcome.
- Early Childhood — Ages 0 to 8 · Early childhood music classes.
- Private Lessons — Ages 4 to adult · One-on-one music lessons with expert teachers.
- Summer Camps — Ages 6 to 18 · Music camps for kids and teens.
- Conservatory — Ages 10 to 18 · Audition-based selective program.
- Merit Music in Communities — School-age children across Chicago · In-school music education program.
At a glance
- Ages: 0–18 years old
About the provider
Merit School of Music has been serving Chicago-area youth for more than 45 years. It is nationally accredited and engages over 3,000 students annually at three downtown branches and in area schools and community centers. Its mission is to transform the lives of Chicago-area youth by removing barriers to high-quality music education.
Financial support includes need-based tuition relief, payment plans, and financial aid. Group class students range in age from 5 to 18. Private lessons are for ages 4 to adult. Summer camps and classes options are for all ages, instruments, and experience levels.
What families say
“Merit has provided my child with a fantastic environment in which to learn and grow as a musician, and a lovely community in which to meet young people from all over the city.” — Na'ama, Merit parent
“Merit has changed my life. It’s changed the entire trajectory of where I’m going, who I believe I am. Merit has given me these opportunities, this vision, this hope for a better dream of myself.” — Oscar, Merit alum
“"The best music school ever!"” — Yuliia, Merit parent
Last updated November 8, 2026.
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