Chicago 2nd-12th Graders Perform at Symphony Center, Beg. Today

Amid national cuts to music education in schools, Merit School of Music's in-schools program not only maintains quality instrumental education, it offers Chicago students the unique opportunity to perform live at the renowned Orchestra Hall at Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave. The two-day public concert, known as MeritFest, is sponsored by Aon Corp.

Approximately 1,000 2-12 grade students from 25 Chicagoland schools will collaborate to perform as large ensembles at MeritFest today, April 22 and May 6. The students are enrolled in Merit's Bridges: Partners in Music in-schools program and have been practicing all school year for these performances.

"MeritFest gives students an experience that few musicians will ever have, even in their professional lives-an opportunity to perform on stage at Orchestra Hall. Mingling and interacting with other students from all over the city and performing with more advanced students from Merit's Tuition-free Conservatory creates a strong sense of belonging and accomplishment for them," said Kurtis Gildow, Merit's Director of Programs.

Today, April 22, string and guitar students will perform from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. During this time, Alice S. Pfaelzer Tuition-free Conservatory 2012 - 2013 Concerto Competition Winner Grace Garriga of Francis W. Parker School will perform on violin. Also, the Conservatory Guitar Ensemble and Honors Jazz Combo will perform.

On May 6, band and choir students will perform from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Third Coast Percussion and members of the Conservatory Percussion Ensemble will perform together, as well as the Honors Jazz Combo. Merit selected Third Coast Percussion, known for exploring and expanding the possibilities of the percussion repertoire, to inspire the young musicians in attendance. The highly-acclaimed ensemble will expose the opportunities and possibilities available to them as percussionists. Third Coast Percussion is dedicated to performing and teaching in communities with limited access to the performing arts.

Merit School of Music, www.meritmusic.org, transforms the lives of Chicago-area youth by providing the highest quality music education - with a focus on underserved communities - inspiring young people to achieve their full musical and personal potential.

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