Merit Blog
A Day at Camp Merit
For two weeks each summer, Camp Merit (part of the Nancy W. Knowles Summer Camp Program) brings together young musicians from across Chicago for an immersive summer experience in band,
From Lizzo to Lollapalooza: Kaylee’s Unforgettable Summer
From playing a duet with Lizzo to performing at the new Barack Obama Presidential Center to taking the stage at Lollapalooza, this summer will be one to remember for 17-year-old
Celebrating a Successful Spring Recital with Emerging Artists Chicago
On Saturday, May 30, a sense of nervous excitement filled the intimate PianoForte Recital Hall as young musicians from Merit and Emerging Artists Chicago gathered for a special spring musical
Merit School of Music South Shore Holds Annual Strings Concert
On May 28, 2026, violin and cello students from Merit School of Music’s South Shore branch performed a joyful strings concert at Bryn Mawr Community Church, a limestone landmark on
Returning to Merit: A Circle of Inspiration
Jemima Adeyinka found Merit as a young child. As an adult, she enthusiastically returned—this time to hold the door open for the next generation. Jemima Adeyinka was an enthusiastic and
Building Pathways to Belonging: Violist Olivia’s Inspiration at the Equity Arc Convening
When young musicians gather through Equity Arc, something powerful happens: doors open, horizons widen, and students who come from long underrepresented backgrounds in classical music see themselves reflected in its
