Artist Residencies
Continued mentorship from world-class musicians and professors.
World-Class Youth Mentorship
Our Artists-in-Residence program connects Conservatory students with the mentorship of world-class musicians and professors through workshops, masterclasses, lectures, performances, and more.
These residencies go a step beyond by facilitating continued personal connection with inspiring artists.
Under expert guidance, students improve technical mastery, develop collaboration experience, and make connections on a whole new level.
Featured Merit Mentors
Nicholas Kraemer
Music of the Baroque, Principal Guest Conductor
Members of Merit Philharmonic rehearse under the direction of Maestro Kraemer and showcase all they’ve learned through a collaborative performance with Music of the Baroque musicians.
Enrique Mazzola
Lyric Opera of Chicago, Music Director
Advanced Choir and Orchestra students have the chance to work with Maestro Mazzola through a series of workshops, visits, and rehearsals, all leading up to an open rehearsal for students and families.
Peter Slowik
Oberlin Conservatory of Music, Head of String Department
& Viola Professor
One of the world’s most acclaimed artist-teachers of viola, Slowik visits Conservatory every 3-4 weeks to work directly with Orchestra students of all experience levels.
Other guest artists who have hosted masterclasses and workshops for Merit students include: Marta Aznavoorian, Marquis Hill, Nathalie Joachim, Yo-Yo Ma, Anthony McGill, Demarre McGill, and many more.
