Merit School of Music – South Shore

Merit School of Music transforms lives through high-quality music education for students of all ages, backgrounds, and experience levels. The nationally accredited music school offers comprehensive programming including private lessons, group classes, ensembles, and early childhood music education across three Chicago locations in West Loop, Near North (Old Town), and South Shore.

Students can study a wide range of instruments including piano, guitar, voice, violin, brass, strings, woodwinds, drums, and more through instruction from passionate, experienced music educators. The school features beginner-friendly programs for absolute novices as well as advanced study opportunities in their tuition-free Alice S. Pfaelzer Conservatory for grades 4-12.

Merit provides music theory classes, ensemble performance opportunities, chamber music programs, and composition instruction. Students benefit from small class sizes ensuring personalized attention while participating in a vibrant, diverse musical community bringing together learners from 139 different Chicago zip codes.

The school hosts regular student performances, concerts, and showcases allowing students to build confidence on stage. Early childhood programming for ages 0-8 incorporates song, chant, movement, and instrument play to develop musical awareness and social-emotional skills.

Merit is committed to making music education accessible to all through financial aid programs, payment plans, and low-cost instrument rentals. The nonprofit organization has served Chicago’s youth for over 45 years since its founding in 1979, helping students develop self-confidence, persistence, creativity, and collaborative skills through the power of music.