What is the Annual Fund?

Each year the Merit School of Music embarks on a campaign known as the Annual Fund. This fundraising effort brings together individual donations to support our students as well as the many programs offered at our School.

What is the Merit Bravo Society?

Merit recognizes generous donations to the Annual Fund through the Merit Bravo Society. With an unrestricted gift of $5,000 or more, we invite the donor to the Society.

What are the benefits of the Merit Bravo Society?

Besides the recognition as a member of the Merit Bravo Society, donors also receive certain benefits that are dependent on their gift amount. We invite all members to the exclusive Donor Appreciation Reception. Other rewards include recognition in certain recital and performance programs, performance dedications, and a listing on the Joy Faith Knapp Music Center Annual Fund donor recognition board.

What can my gift add to Merit School of Music?

The Annual Fund supports many programs and important activities at Merit. Building upkeep and maintenance, instrument repairs and purchases and general operational needs all depend on your annual donations. Your donation also reaches Merit students through Dynamic Starts, Music Explorers and the Preparatory Program, allowing staff and faculty to develop new ways to include our diverse population. More specifically, an Annual Fund contribution of $5,000 would cover a year of lessons and comprehensive instruction for Merit's most advanced students in the afternoon division of our esteemed program, the Alice S. Pfaelzer Tuition-free Conservatory. And these examples are just the beginning of the countless number of ways that your gift would enhance the Merit School of Music.

How can I give?

Please contact Melissa Busch, Director of Major and Planned Gifts, at 312-267-4470 or for further information about giving to Merit or the Merit Bravo Society.