Alice S. Pfaelzer Tuition-free Conservatory
 
Program Level: High intermediate to advanced
Ages: 9 - 18 years
Audition Required

The Alice S. Pfaelzer Tuition-free Conservatory, Merit's advanced level program, is quickly becoming known as one of Chicagoland's premier programs for talented young musicians. Students spend their years in the Conservatory pursuing continuous musical advancement under the guidance of our renowned faculty.

Graduates of the Conservatory have continued their studies at institutions such as Juilliard, Eastman School of Music, New England Conservatory, Manhattan School of Music, Oberlin Conservatory and Indiana University. Merit alumni have also achieved illustrious performing careers with the New York Metropolitan Opera, Philadelphia Orchestra, Ryan Center at the Lyric Opera of Chicago, New World Symphony, New Orleans Symphony and the Count Basie Orchestra, among others.

All Conservatory students participate in the following:

• Small group instrumental technique class
• Music theory class
• Large Ensembles including:
  • Merit Symphony Orchestra
  • String Orchestra
  • Merit Wind Ensemble
  • Symphonic Band
  • Merit Concert Choir
  • Merit Singers
  • Choir
• Weekly assemblies and performances by students, faculty and guest artists

• Chamber Music
• Jazz Studies
• The Composer's Forum - weekly classes in composition
• AP Theory
• Piano Skills

• Private Lesson Scholarships
• Annual Concerto Competition
• High School and College Counseling
• College Scholarships and Awards
• Attendance at Professional Performances
• Music Camp and Summer Institute Scholarships

• Honorable Mention in the Illinois Council of Orchestras’ 2008 Youth Orchestra of the Year Category
• 1st place: Rembrandt Chamber Players High School Chamber Music Competition
• 1st place: Midwest Young Artists Chicago National Chamber Music Competition
• Illinois Council of Orchestras' 2007 Special Recognition in Chamber Music award
• 29th Annual Downbeat Award for Best Jazz Group in the Performing Arts High School Category