Last summer, Merit School of Music launched a new initiative in partnership with Bryn Mawr Community Church to expand access to high-quality music education in the South Shore community. What began as a pilot program has quickly become a vibrant and growing hub for young musicians in the neighborhood, and one year later, the excitement is only building.
This summer, every beginner class at Merit – South Shore is full. Demand is growing, and so is our commitment to making music education more accessible than ever. As we look ahead, we’re energized by the response from the community and more determined than ever to meet that enthusiasm with joyful, meaningful programming.
A Mission-Driven Partnership
“Music has the power to inspire, unite, and uplift,” says Pastor JeVon Dion Moore. “We believe that by bringing high-quality music education to our neighborhood, we can empower our youth and strengthen our community.”
This is the guiding principle that brought Bryn Mawr Community Church and Merit School of Music together in a meaningful partnership rooted in community, creativity, and opportunity. Pastor Moore’s deep commitment to the youth and neighborhood enrichment aligns beautifully with Merit’s mission to expand access to high-quality music education for all. Special thanks to Jennifer Montague, Merit Trustee and member of Bryn Mawr Community Church, who helped bring our two organizations together!
In July 2024, we kicked off our pilot program with a joyful summer of violin and West African Drumming and Dance classes. In the fall, we expanded to include violin and cello group classes and private lessons. For many of our young musicians, it was their first time ever holding an instrument—and by the end of the year, they proudly performed in their very first recital. It was a year of exciting “firsts,” filled with learning, growth, and joyful music-making.
Growing Enrollment and Excitement
Since its inception, Merit – South Shore has only continued to grow. Our group class enrollment for the current summer session has doubled compared to the school year—and every one of our beginning violin and cello classes is full! The response from the community has been inspiring, and we’re excited to keep meeting the demand for accessible, high-quality music education in South Shore.
Making Music in the Community
One of the most energizing parts of this collaboration has been our deep engagement with the community. Through music, we’ve had the chance to forge new connections across South Shore and beyond, and we’re so excited to continue on that path.
This summer, we’re thrilled to be part of the iconic Bud Billiken Festival, a beloved Chicago tradition! Come visit our booth for an instrument petting zoo, fun giveaways, and information about upcoming Merit – South Shore programs.
Saturday, August 9, 10am-4pm
Washington Park
We’ve also been active at the 61st Street Farmers Market, a Hyde Park favorite. In June, our Early Childhood faculty led a musical storytime, our students performed, and kids explored new instruments hands-on at our instrument petting zoo. We’re excited to return this fall!
Saturday, September 13, 10am-1pm
6100 S Blackstone Ave
And don’t miss the Merit – South Shore Open House — a morning of music, community, and fun! Come see what we’re all about. RSVP today!
Saturday, September 20, 10-11:30am
7000 S Jeffery Blvd
Introducing the South Shore Sounds Series
So far, our programming at Merit – South Shore has focused on school-aged children. But this summer, we’re thrilled to launch a special series of pop-up for our littlest music lovers! Join us at one of our South Shore Sounds sessions, where kids ages 0-5 explore rhythm, song, and creative expression through hands-on musical play. Sign up today!
South Shore Sounds: Let’s Jam!
July 26, 2025 10-11am
7000 S Jeffery Blvd
South Shore Sounds: Let’s Splash & Sing!
August 16, 2025 10-11am
7000 S Jeffery Blvd
As we reflect on the past year, we’re incredibly proud of what we’ve built together with Bryn Mawr Community Church and the South Shore community. From the first day of summer classes last year to today, this partnership has been grounded in a shared belief in the transformative power of music and community.
Music education can open doors, build confidence, and bring people together. And this is just the beginning. With every new student, every community event, and every note played, we’re creating something special. We are thrilled to continue this journey together.
