Merit Music in Communities (MMiC)

Bringing transformative, high-quality music education to schools and community centers across Chicago.

We’re Teaming Up with Schools & Community Centers

Launched in 1984, Merit Music in Communities (MMiC) provides high-quality music education at 30 schools and community centers throughout Chicago.

In many cases, the MMiC program serves as a student’s first step on a lifetime journey of musical involvement and appreciation.

Motivated students are encouraged to continue their studies by enrolling in Merit’s group classes and private lessons, or auditioning for the Alice S. Pfaelzer Conservatory.

MMiC Impact

MMiC continually engages children and families in underrepresented and often under-resourced communities where the need is greatest and access most limited.

Merit and MMiC have filled this need for tens of thousands of children over nearly 40 years.

Special thanks to the Ralla Klepak Merit Music in Communities Sustainability and Innovation Fund for its generous support of all MMiC activities.

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"I see our Merit program students bubble up with pride every time they perform before the entire school. I see that their practice and hard work pays off. They learn to be gritty in the process and become better students as well. All of our Merit program students have great attendance, and they are all recognized for their high levels of citizenship and service within the classroom."