- Music Classes & Lessons
- Group Classes & Ensembles
- Private Lessons
- Early Childhood
- Summer Camps
- View by Instrument/Age
- Why Choose Merit
Individual lessons and group classes for students at any level.
- Community Programs
Bringing accessible, high-quality music education to Chicagoland communities.
- Selective Programs
The highest level of achievement for Merit students in tuition-free, audition-based programs.
- About
- Impact
- Support
Merit's supporters remove barriers to music education, ensuring access for Chicago's youth.
- Resources
Music Classes & Lessons by Age
We offer one-on-one music lessons and group classes for students at every level including babies, toddlers, kids, pre-teens, teens, and adults.
Music Education at Every Age
Our expert faculty deliver high-quality music programs for students of every age and level of experience
Babies & Toddlers
(Newborn – 5 years)
Early Childhood classes are led by specialists who incorporate developmentally appropriate exercises in song, chant, movement, and instrument play. We introduce developing minds to the world of music, expanding imagination, musical awareness, and expressiveness. Music classes stimulate physical, emotional, and social development in babies and kids. Learn more about the benefits of Early Childhood music education.
Instruments offered:
- Cello (4+)
- Violin (4+)
- Ukulele (5-8)
Programs offered:
Kids
(Ages 6 – 9 years)
Kids can begin learning their instrument, how to read music, and experience the joy of playing music with others. Merit’s offering of Early Childhood programming, private lessons, group classes, summer camps, and ensembles ensures not only a great starting point, but also a robust path to continue developing as a musician.
Studying music helps kids express their emotions and develop focus and discipline. Learn more about how learning music can enrich your child’s life.
Instruments offered:
- Ukulele (5-8)
- Violin, cello, piano, bass (7+)
- Viola (7+)
- Children’s choir (7+)
- Guitar (9+)
- Woodwind and brass instruments (9+)
- Percussion (9+)
Programs offered:
Pre-teens
(Ages 10 – 13 years)
Pre-teens can continue their training or start fresh in music. Merit’s selection of private lessons, group classes, summer camps, ensembles, and Conservatory training allows us to meet every student exactly where they’re at, and provide them a path to continue growing.
Music offers pre-teens positive and collaborative social experience, increasing their confidence and sense of self. It’s also linked to higher academic results in math, science, and English. Learn more about how learning music can enrich your pre-teen’s life.
Instruments offered:
- All with voice lessons for ages 12+
- Explore the full list of instrument options
Programs offered:
Teens
(Ages 14 – 18 years)
Teens at any level of experience (including beginners) can study with Merit on any instrument including voice. Whether in private lessons, group classes, summer camps, ensembles, or Conservatory we provide the right setting for teens to explore their musical potential.
At Merit, teens join a community of musician peers and expert mentors. This chance to hone skills in social collaboration prepares students for life, in whatever career they may eventually choose. In addition to the fun of musical performance, music education is also linked to higher academic results in math, science, and English. Learn more about the benefits of music education.
Instruments offered:
- All including voice lessons
- Explore the full list of instrument options
Programs offered:
Adults
(All Skill Levels)
Whether you’re here to improve your skills, renew your musical interests, or are ready to learn music for the first time, Merit has expert teachers to guide you in honing your craft, mastering your technique, and expanding your musical knowledge. You’re never too old to benefit from making music! Learn more about the benefits of music education.
Instruments offered:
- All including voice lessons
- Explore the full list of instrument options
Programs offered:
