- 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
Daniel Gayden
Band & Jazz Program Manager
Education:
Western Michigan University Alum, BM Jazz Studies Performance
Chicago High School for the Arts Alum
Bio:
Daniel Gayden is a drummer, multidisciplinary artist, and educator from the southside of Chicago. Daniel graduated from The Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts) and is an alum of Western Michigan University, attaining a degree in Jazz Studies Performance on drum set. While at Western, Daniel was the Marketing & Band Manager for the Jazz and Creative Institute School in Kalamazoo, MI. Following graduation from Western, Daniel worked as an Alumni Platform Intern for the ChiArts Foundation. His passion and willingness to contribute to music and arts education in Chicago have led him to join the program team at Merit School of Music.
Favorite Musician:
Steve Lacy
