Merit – South Shore

Affordable South Shore Music Classes

After-school Violin, Cello, & Choir Classes

There's still time to join select fall classes!

Beginners: No instrument needed

Merit School of Music and Bryn Mawr Community Church are excited to partner in bringing Merit’s high-quality, after-school music classes to Chicago’s South Shore neighborhood.

Taking place at Bryn Mawr Community Church, these fun and educational music classes are taught by Merit’s experienced and passionate music teachers—some of the best in Chicago.

Browse & Register for Classes →

Join Us! Upcoming South Shore Events

Explore music-making while getting to know Merit – South Shore.

Merit South Shore Spring Concert

Celebrate music, creativity, and community at Merit School of Music’s South Shore branch!

May 28

6:00 – 7:00 pm • FREE!

at Bryn Mawr Community Church

Join us for a free, family‑friendly concert featuring our violin and cello students as they showcase everything they’ve learned throughout the year. Whether you’re cheering on a performer or simply curious about what Merit South Shore has to offer, this is the perfect chance to experience the joy of music up close.

You’ll also get to learn about our growing programming at this branch, including a brand‑new introductory music class launching this summer.

RSVPs are appreciated but not required. Just show up, enjoy the music, and see what Merit is building in South Shore. Families and future young musicians are especially encouraged to join. We hope to see you there!

Parking: There is a free parking lot on Jeffery Blvd, directly across the street from the church.

South Shore Sounds Series

3 new classes added!

10/11, 11/8, & 12/6

10:00 am • $15/per child

Kids ages 0-5 will explore rhythm, song, and creative expression through hands-on musical play—perfect for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers.

Come sing, move, and celebrate community through sound at our pop-up playdate. Registration required! Limited spots available.

Open House: Merit - South Shore

Saturday, September 20

10:00 – 11:30 am

You’re invited to Merit – South Shore’s Open House on Saturday, September 20! 🏠 Bring the whole family (and your friends!) to explore our instrument petting zoo, meet our team, and enjoy live performances.

South Shore Music Classes

After-school Music Classes – Beginners Welcome!

Turn up the music with high-quality music programming taught by top music educators. Small class sizes allow students to benefit from peer interaction while still receiving individual support.

$390 • Ages 5-12
September 17, 2026 – April 29, 2027
Discover the violin and cello in this introductory class where students will explore these two popular string instruments in a fun and supportive setting.

Pricing includes instrument rental

$390 • Ages 5-14
September 17, 2026 – April 29, 2027
This Continuing Traditional Violin class helps young musicians further develop proper technique, note reading, and ensemble playing while improving upon skills and musical concepts.

Pricing includes instrument rental

$150 • Ages 6-8
September 17 – December 10
Children’s Choir is for young music-lovers who want to begin using their voice as an instrument in a fun and creative group environment. Beginners welcome—no experience required!

Please note: Group class registrations require a non-refundable $50 registration fee per student. Violin and cello rentals are included in the cost of tuition. Sign-ups after the registration deadline of August 23 will incur a $15 late fee.

Merit School of Music South Shore Holds Annual Strings Concert

Returning to Merit: A Circle of Inspiration

Celebrating Black History Month Through Music and Community: Reflections from our Partners at Merit – South Shore

Student Spotlight: Meve H.

A Year at Merit – South Shore

About this Location

Bryn Mawr Community Church

As a valued partner of Merit School of Music and a strong proponent for empowering youth, Bryn Mawr Community Church serves as a South Shore hub for Merit’s music programming.

Since its founding in 1914, Bryn Mawr Community Church has been a cornerstone of the South Shore community in Chicago, evolving to meet the changing needs of its congregation and neighborhood. The church focuses on serving a diverse congregation and fostering a sense of unity and family.

How to Get Here

Bryn Mawr Community Church is located in Chicago’s South Shore neighborhood on the southwest corner of Jeffrey Blvd and E 70th St.

Music classes take place in the parish hall. Enter on Jeffery Blvd, using the entrance to the south of the church.

Merit School of Music – South Shore

Bryn Mawr Community Church – Parish Hall
7000 S Jeffery Blvd
Chicago, IL 60649

Public Transit

The “71” Bus to the corner of 71st Street and Jeffrey
The “J14” Bus to the corner of 71st Street and Jeffrey
The “15” Bus to the corner of 71st Street and Jeffrey

Driving & Parking

A few common routes to Bryn Mawr Community Church include Lakeshore Dr, I-90, S South Shore Dr, or S Stony Island Ave.

There is a free parking lot on Jeffery Blvd, directly across the street from the church.

Contact Us

Need help or have a question? Contact us at studentservices@meritmusic.org or 312-786-9428. We’re here for you!

Discover a New Passion

Start your musical journey on a high note with Merit School of Music.