Lyric Opera 2025-2026 Issue 11 - safronia

Lyric Opera of Chicago | 62 Magic at Merit “Over the years, we have cultivated a strong partnership with the Merit School of Music,” says Jill LeCesne Potter, Senior Director of Learning Programs for Lyric Unlimited. “From working with Merit’s music and vocal program staff to their marketing and development departments, our collaborative efforts continue to evolve. Our partnership is built on trust, the opportunities we create together through shared resources, and a simple belief in the power of music to open new doors for the next generation.” A partner organization of Lyric since the 2011/12 Season, Merit’s self-described mission is to “transform the lives of Chicago-area youth through removing barriers to high-quality music education.” Located in Chicago’s West Loop neighborhood, the school has been executing on that vision since its founding in 1979, offering early childhood classes, group classes and ensembles, and private lessons. The school’s commitment to nurturing young musicians — especially students from diverse backgrounds — aligns perfectly with Lyric Unlimited’s goal to ignite creativity across Chicago through innovative learning opportunities, community partnerships, and artistic creation and collaboration. “We are offering the students at Merit an opportunity to engage with Lyric professionals in various areas of expertise to introduce students to opera and support their learning in music education,” Potter says. “These opportunities can reflect anything from coaching sessions in technique, seminars, master classes, and open rehearsals to performances.” Highlights of the 2025/26 Season partnership include opportunities for Merit students to attend performances at Lyric, and a visit from Ryan Opera Center artists soprano Emily Richter and pianist Michael Banwarth, who performed and spoke with students as part of Merit’s Live Mazzola is an integral part of Lyric’s partnership with the school. By Janie Ragsdale Lyric’s ongoing relationship with the music school brings professional know-how to this important institution. Both photos by Jaclyn Simpson