Merit’s Preparatory Program is an after-school program for children ages 6 to 14 that prepares intermediate level students for musical excellence. The Preparatory Program offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes instrumental/vocal instruction, music theory, and large ensembles. This training helps to prepare students for entrance into Merit’s most advanced program, the Tuition-free Conservatory.

The Preparatory Program is an audition only that includes two divisions: the Solo Program and the Tutti Program. Students are placed according to their experience and recommendation of Merit’s faculty.

Core Curriculum
All Preparatory Program students take weekly classes in the following:

• Weekly 30-minute Private Lesson (Solo) or a Weekly 45-minute Group Lesson (Tutti)
• Large Ensembles - Students rehearse weekly with a variety of large ensembles, including three string orchestras, two concert bands, two choirs, seven piano ensembles, and a guitar ensemble.
• Music Theory - Merit offers its own age-appropriate music theory curriculum in three levels. Students have opportunities to study music theory and composition on the computers and MIDI keyboards in Merit’s computer lab.

Performance Opportunities

Annual performance opportunities for Preparatory ensembles, group classes, and private lesson students include private lesson recitals, the Winter Concert and the year–end Kaleidoscope, an exciting full-day marathon concert with food and family activities.

Merit Young Artists Competition

Preparatory students have the opportunity to participate in the Merit Young Artists Competition held in the Spring. Students will compete for trophies and cash prizes.