Merit School of Music

09/11/2026

Merit's 2026-2027 school year is almost here! Take a look at our fall building hours starting Saturday, September 12.

09/10/2026

Join our team! 🎵 We have openings for passionate, qualified strings instructors, as well as a Strings & Orchestra Program Manager and Band Program Coordinator.

Check out the full descriptions for all open positions and apply today! ➡️

We're hiring music teachers and staff! Join our mission to provide equal access to high-quality music education. Browse and apply for jobs.

09/10/2026

We're hosting a FREE ✨ Instrument Exploration Workshop on Saturday, September 26! ✨ Kids age 5+ will have the opportunity to try out different instruments with the guidance of our faculty and current students. Reserve your spot now at https://hubs.la/Q04x89hX0

📆 Saturday, September 26
🕚 10 - 11am
📍38 S Peoria St.

09/10/2026

Music has the power to bring people together, inspire, and heal. We're grateful to be part of such a meaningful tradition honoring Hayden's life through music. Congratulations to all who made this year's concert such a success, and many thanks for supporting Merit's mission of removing barriers to high-quality music education.

Thank you for an amazing eighth annual Strike a Chord for Hayden Benefit Concert! Just a couple of weeks ago, the Memorial Park Amphitheater in La Grange Park was full of music and friends. With probably the best turnout we have ever had, the 2026 Strike a Chord for Hayden Benefit Concert was a huge success, and we greatly appreciate everyone who attended, donated, or supported the event in any way.

Thank you to the fantastic volunteers; to the wonderful bands who volunteered their time and talents, Viceroy, The Stone Cats, and Deep Blue Satellites; to A Sound Education, who once again so kindly lent us their PA; to the Community Park District for their support and for letting us use this beautiful space; and to Merit School of Music, for the great things they do. What a wonderful way to remember Hayden.

Thanks again, and we can't wait to see you next year!

09/09/2026

Music lessons, soccer practice, homework, group projects—the school year is filled with great activities, but for many students, the calendar can feel like a constant balancing act. How do you make space for consistent musical study with so many demands competing for time and attention?

Check out 6 helpful tips from Merit faculty, staff, and alums to find that balance in a world that’s constantly competing for attention. ➡️ https://hubs.la/Q04wCCF70

09/08/2026

Registration ends TODAY! Looking for a music class for your child this fall? Merit School of Music offers classes for young musicians of all experience levels.

New to Merit? Use LETSPLAY10 for 10% off your first class (some restrictions apply). Don’t miss the deadline—sign up today at https://hubs.la/Q04wYF8-0.

Merit School of Music offers high-quality instruction from the best music teachers in Chicago. Explore music classes and lessons for ages 0+.

09/07/2026

All Merit branches are closed on Monday, September 7. Have a fun and safe Labor Day!

09/04/2026

You're invited! 🎶 Merit students past and present will perform at the 8th annual Play On benefit at City Winery Chicago on October 28!

The year’s headliner is acclaimed jazz trumpeter (and Merit alum!) Victor Garcia and his Latin Jazz Orchestra, with an opening performance by Merit’s talented Honors Jazz Combo. Come early to join us for a salsa dancing lesson so you can dance the night away during the show! 💃

Spread the word and invite your friends to join us in removing barriers to high-quality music education for Chicago's youth together. 🎵

📍 City Winery Chicago West Loop, 1200 W Randolph St
🗓️ Wednesday, October 28
🕖 Doors & salsa lesson 6pm | Show 7:30pm
🎫 https://hubs.la/Q04wC-Lr0

08/31/2026

🎸 Tag a friend who has a budding musician in their family for a chance to win a FREE ukulele!

Know a kid who’s always singing, tapping out rhythms, or dreaming of being on stage? Tag their family/guardian in the comments! 🎹🎻🎸🥁🎤

How to enter:
1. Follow Merit School of Music
2. Like this post
3. Tag a friend in the comments who has a budding musician in their family
Bonus: Tag more friends for more chances to win!

🎶 Giveaway ends September 8. One winner will be selected at random and contacted via DM.

No purchase necessary. Must be 18+ to enter. Winner must be located in the Chicago area and able to pick up the ukulele from Merit School of Music. This giveaway is not sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with Instagram or Facebook. By entering, you agree to the official giveaway rules.

Merit School of Music offers high-quality instruction from the best music teachers in Chicago. Explore music classes and lessons for ages 0+.

08/29/2026

Be sure to join in for one of our music classes before September 8! via Chicago Parent

Music education fosters creativity, confidence, cognitive and motor skills, and social development! For families in Chicago, the city offers a wide spectrum of options.

Like:
🎶 Merit School of Music: offers high-quality music instruction for all ages, instruments and skill level
🎼 RCM Smart Start: uses music, movement, play and the arts to nurture critical cognitive skills in young children
🎵 Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras: prestigious program that offers full orchestras, ensembles, jazz, chamber music, and masterclasses

See more options in the article.

🔗 Link to article in first comment
💬 What type of music class most intrigues your kids? Orchestras? Bands? Choir sing-alongs?