Help & support

How can we help?

Missing a lesson? Let your teacher know below. For anything else, chat with our team, search answers to common questions about lessons, billing, events, exams, festival and camps, or send us a message and our Customer Care team will get back to you.

Missing a lesson? Chat with our team Search the FAQ Send us a message

Lesson notice

Missing a
lesson?

Let your teacher know if your child will be away, joining online or running late. We’ll pass the notice to their teacher, and we keep a record of the time it arrived.

Students can have up to 2 make-up lessons per school year, and only for absences reported at least 6 hours before the lesson.
For illness, just choose “Illness”. Please don’t include symptoms or medical details.
Need to change a lesson for good, or something else? Use the message form further down.

Parent or guardian email *

Family last name on file *

Student name *

Teacher *

Teacher’s name

Lesson date *

Lesson time *

What’s happening? *

Student will be absent

Student will attend virtually

Student will be late

Reason *

Tell us briefly

Please don’t include medical details.

Thanks. Your notice is on its way to your teacher, and a confirmation with the time we received it is on its way to you.

Something went wrong and your notice wasn’t sent. Please try again, or reach us in the chat.

Chat with us

Talk to a real person.

The quickest way to reach us is the chat. Ask a question, sort out a scheduling problem or get help with your account, and choose “Speak to a Person” any time to reach our care team. Please don’t type card or bank details into the chat.

Open the chat →

You’ll also find the chat bubble in the bottom corner of every page on this site.

Good things to ask in chat

Changing a lesson day, time, teacher or instrument
Letting your teacher know your child will miss a lesson
Updating payment details securely
Questions about tuition, discounts or receipts
Finding your teacher’s online classroom link
Help with events, exams, festival or camps

Frequently asked questions

Find an answer.

Search by keyword or jump to a topic. Each answer notes the policy or help article it comes from and when that source was last updated.

Lesson Concern

What is included in my child's lesson program?

A full school-year program includes 36 regularly scheduled weekly lessons (September to June), plus 4 summer flex lessons for qualifying programs. Your tuition also covers one StudioFest (non-competitive festival) entry, a year-end recital, sign-up recitals, Keymaster sessions and workshops, faculty concerts and a yearly video log for students who complete the full year. Some extras vary by campus (for example, Jam Nites are listed for Oakville and online students take part through online recitals), so check your campus policy sheet or ask your Education Counsellor.

Source: 2026-27 School Policies · Help Centre: Regular Monthly Tuition Rate · Customer Care team, updated Oct 26, 2026

When does the school year start and end?

Programs run September through August. For 2026-27, the last day of regular classes is June 19, 2027, followed by make-up weeks from June 20 to July 3. July and August are for summer flex lessons and camps.

Source: 2026-27 School Policies, updated Sep 10, 2026

How do I change my lesson day, time, instrument or program?

Submit a change request through the online change request form. An Education Counsellor will review it and get back to you to confirm the new placement, or to offer the closest alternatives if an exact match isn't available. If you are switching instruments completely, we'll confirm that with you before matching you with a new teacher.

Source: Help Centre: Changes To Your Lessons · School policy notes, updated Oct 20, 2026

Can my child have longer lessons, add another instrument, or can I enrol another family member?

Yes. Choose "Speak to a Person" in the chat and our team will help you find the right lesson length, program and schedule. When adding a second instrument, we check that both lessons fit your available time.

Source: Help Centre: Lesson Time Increase · Help Centre: Adding On Another Enrollment · School policy notes, updated Oct 20, 2026

Can my child's lesson move online if we can't come in?

Yes. All of our teachers are trained to teach online, and each one has their own online classroom link. For a usually in-person lesson, the teacher needs only a few hours' notice to switch. If you don't have your teacher's link, choose "Speak to a Person" in the chat and we'll send it.

Source: Help Centre: Private Lesson - Teacher's Online Classroom, updated Feb 12, 2025

What are the rules for in-home lessons?

An adult (18 or older) must be at home for the entire lesson. Our teacher will not start the lesson or enter the home without an adult present, and a lesson missed for that reason is charged at the regular rate and is not made up.

Source: Terms and Conditions (Sept 2025), updated Sep 19, 2025

How does September re-registration work for returning students?

Returning students are rolled over automatically between May 1 and May 31, which guarantees your child a place for the next school year. The September deposit is charged on June 2 for everyone who has not opted out. Scheduling requests for the new year are taken in June on a first-come, first-served basis, and more details are shared each April.

Source: 2026-27 School Policies · Help Centre: June Payment, Sept re-registration & Opt-Out, updated Sep 10, 2026

We're not continuing next September. How do we opt out of re-registration?

Let us know in writing by May 31 by emailing care@merriammusic.com. If we don't hear from you by then, your child is re-registered automatically and the September deposit is charged on June 2. Deposits are non-refundable.

Source: Help Centre · 2026-27 School Policies · Terms and Conditions (Sept 2025), updated Sep 10, 2026

How do I withdraw my child from lessons?

We ask for 30 days' written notice. Email care@merriammusic.com with the details and your Education Counsellor will be in touch to help with next steps (they are always happy to talk through options first). Once the withdrawal is processed, your child's lesson spot is released as of the last lesson date.

Changed your mind? If it's within the 30-day notice period, we can reverse the withdrawal as long as the spot hasn't been booked by a new student. If it has, we'll help you find a comparable spot based on current availability.

Source: Help Centre: Lesson Withdrawal Request · Terms and Conditions (Sept 2025) · Customer Care team, updated Oct 26, 2026

Can we pause lessons for a few months instead of withdrawing?

There's no pause option. If you need a break from lessons at any time during the year, for any reason, submit a withdrawal request with 30 days' notice. Your lesson spot is cancelled and billing stops once the notice period is up. If the break is short-term, connect with your Education Counsellor to review lesson availability, and you can re-enrol at any time once you're ready to return.

Source: Customer Care team, updated Oct 26, 2026

Does the school ever cancel or combine classes?

Yes, occasionally. Merriam may change, combine or cancel a class if there isn't enough enrolment, and we'll work with you on an alternative.

Source: Terms and Conditions (Sept 2025), updated Sep 19, 2025

What are Practice Power-Ups and how do I book one?

Practice Power-Ups are extra tutoring sessions with a Merriam teacher for group piano students who want a little more help with a concept. In-person sessions are 1 hour (up to 6 spots) in a group piano room with headphones; virtual sessions are 30 minutes (up to 2 students). Your first two sessions are free with the code we send you, and you can change or cancel up to 24 hours ahead using the link in your confirmation email. Bring your books and homework.

Source: Help Centre: Practice Power Ups, updated May 27, 2025 · Being reviewed

Teacher Concern

What happens if my child's teacher is away?

Your teacher will either arrange a qualified substitute, in which case the lesson goes ahead as scheduled, or reschedule the lesson as a make-up (usually during make-up weeks). If a substitute or make-up truly isn't possible, the school will look at a refund for that lesson. This applies to both private and group lessons.

Source: Help Centre: Make-Ups for Missed Lessons · Terms and Conditions (Sept 2025) · 2026-27 School Policies, updated Oct 19, 2026

Can we change teachers?

Yes. Submit an online change request and an Education Counsellor will contact you with options. Private-lesson tuition is set by the teacher's level (Certified, Specialty or Master Coach), so if the new teacher is at a different level we'll tell you about any price difference before anything is confirmed.

Source: Help Centre · School policy notes, updated Oct 19, 2026

We asked for a specific teacher for next year and they're full. What happens now?

Our most popular teachers fill up quickly once re-registration rolls over. If your preferred teacher has no opening, your Education Counsellor will tell you right away and ask whether you'd rather wait for that teacher (we can add you to their waitlist) or try a different teacher. We will never switch your teacher without asking you first.

Source: School policy notes, updated Oct 20, 2026

What if the first lesson with a new teacher isn't a good fit?

Merriam offers a "Good Fit Guarantee": if you aren't satisfied with the first lesson with a new teacher, that lesson is free. Talk to your Education Counsellor and we'll help find a better match.

Source: School policy notes, updated Oct 14, 2026

When will I get my child's progress report or report card?

Teachers send a mid-year progress report and a year-end report card, which goes out by the end of June. If you haven't received one, contact your teacher directly or choose "Speak to a Person" in the chat.

Source: Help Centre: Progress Report · Help Centre: Report Card, updated May 27, 2025

Financial / Billing

How does monthly tuition work, and why is it the same every month?

Tuition covers your child's program enrolment for the school year and is divided into equal monthly payments from September through July, charged on the 1st of each month and averaging four lessons per month. Payments stay the same regardless of how many weeks are in a month, which accounts for five-week months and regular holidays. If you need to discontinue lessons, 30 days' advance notice is required, and tuition is payable during the notice period.

Source: Help Centre · Terms and Conditions (Sept 2025) · Customer Care team, updated Oct 26, 2026

Why is there a payment on July 1, and can it be waived?

July 1 is the 11th and final instalment for the school year. It is part of the full-year tuition, which includes your 4 summer flex lessons in July and August.

If you'll be away all summer, the July payment may be waived when you provide travel documentation confirming you're away for the full two months. Otherwise, your flex lessons can be scheduled around your travel dates in July and August.

Source: Help Centre: July Payment & Flex Summer Lessons · Customer Care team, updated Oct 26, 2026

Is there a discount for paying for the full year up front?

Yes. Families who pay the full year's tuition on September 1 receive a 5% discount. To switch from monthly to full payment, choose "Speak to a Person" in the chat.

Source: Help Centre: Annual or Full Payment Plan · Customer care guidance · School policy notes, updated Oct 19, 2026

What is the difference between the Annual Membership Fee and Lifetime Family Registration?

Every student needs a valid membership to enrol. You can pay the Annual Membership Fee each year for each enrolled student, or pay Lifetime Family Registration once to cover all immediate family members for as long as they take lessons. The Annual Membership Fee is charged with the September re-registration deposit, processed on June 2 each year. You can upgrade to Lifetime Family Registration by choosing "Speak to a Person" (mid-year, only the difference is charged). These fees are non-refundable and are not applied retroactively to past years.

Source: Help Centre: Registration and Membership Fees · Customer Care team, updated Oct 26, 2026

My child takes two instruments. Do we pay the Annual Membership Fee twice?

No. The Annual Membership Fee is charged once per student per school year, no matter how many lessons or programs that student is enrolled in.

Source: School policy notes · Help Centre · Customer Care team, updated Oct 26, 2026

Why were we charged twice in June?

On June 1 we charge the regular monthly instalment for the current school year. On June 2 we charge the September deposit for the next school year, together with the Annual Membership Fee. The deposit holds the student's lesson time and placement in the program through automatic registration. If you don't plan to return in September, let us know in writing by May 31.

Source: Help Centre · 2026-27 School Policies · Customer Care team, updated Oct 26, 2026

If we withdraw, do we get money back?

After you give 30 days' written notice, any tuition you've prepaid for the period beyond those 30 days is refunded in full. September deposits and Annual Membership Fees are non-refundable.

Source: 2026-27 School Policies · Terms and Conditions (Sept 2025) · Customer Care team, updated Oct 26, 2026

How do I update my credit card or bank account?

Choose "Speak to a Person" in the chat and we'll send you a secure "Pay Request" link to update it online, or call the care team at 905-829-2020, or stop by the front desk. Please don't type card or bank details into the chat. Changes should reach us by the 23rd of the month before your next payment.

Source: Help Centre: Updating Payment Information · Terms and Conditions (Sept 2025), updated Sep 19, 2025

Can we pay by cash or e-transfer?

Every enrolment needs pre-authorized payments, either on a credit card or by automatic bank withdrawal. If you'd like to pay a specific month by e-transfer or cash, you must do so before the 21st of the month, so we can stop that month's automatic payment and resume it for the next month.

Source: Customer Care team, updated Oct 26, 2026

What happens if a payment is declined or late?

A $25 administrative fee applies to any payment returned for non-sufficient funds, and the missed amount plus the fee is due within 10 days of notice. If payments are late (after the 1st) more than twice, the remaining balance for the school year becomes due within 10 days.

Source: Terms and Conditions (Sept 2025), updated Sep 19, 2025

We're starting partway through the year. How is tuition calculated?

Tuition is prorated from your start date, so you pay only for the portion of the year you're enrolled.

Source: Terms and Conditions (Sept 2025), updated Sep 19, 2025

Are there discounts for families or students taking several lessons?

Yes. A multiple-lesson discount applies to a student's third and later enrolments, and a family discount applies when three or more students in the family are enrolled; a family receives one or the other, not both. Paying the full year up front within the first month of registration qualifies for an additional 5% full-payment discount. Ask your Education Counsellor for the exact amounts.

Source: School policy notes · Help Centre, updated Oct 19, 2026

As a returning family, how is next year's tuition set?

Returning families receive loyalty pricing. Any yearly increase is applied to the amount you actually paid last year (after your loyalty discount), not to the list price for new families, and if the program's price doesn't change, your rate doesn't either.

Source: School policy notes, updated Oct 20, 2026

Is there a referral reward?

Yes. When you refer a new family, a referral credit is applied to your account (shared between the Annual Membership Fee and the new family's first year). Speak with your Education Counsellor for the current amount.

Source: School policy notes, updated Oct 26, 2026

Does a trial lesson cost anything?

A trial is a real lesson with a teacher. It is either free or paid; a paid trial costs one quarter of the program's monthly tuition for that week. Your admissions advisor will confirm which applies.

Source: School policy notes, updated Oct 19, 2026

Can I get a receipt for Ontario Autism Program (OAP) or SSAH funding?

Yes. Choose "Speak to a Person" in the chat or email care@merriammusic.com with the details of the receipt you need, and your Education Counsellor will prepare it for you to submit.

Source: Help Centre: OAP Coverage for Music Therapy or Adapted Music Lessons · Help Centre: Receipt for SSAH funding, updated Oct 27, 2025

If a lesson is cancelled, is the money refunded automatically?

No. A missed private lesson that qualifies for a make-up is moved to a new time rather than refunded. Refund questions are reviewed individually by your Education Counsellor.

Source: School policy notes · 2026-27 School Policies, updated Oct 20, 2026

Event or Recital Info

How do we sign up for school events?

Most monthly events are free for registered students. Visit the School Events page, choose an event and sign up. Sign-up lists for recitals usually open about a month before the date.

Source: Help Centre: Sign up for an event · 2026-27 School Policies, updated Sep 10, 2026

Which events can my child attend at our campus?

Your program gives you access to your campus's events, including sign-up recitals, Keymaster sessions and workshops, theme weeks and faculty concerts (held in Oakville's Studio A recital hall in October, December and April). Online (MMOA) students take part through online recitals and workshops. Check your campus event calendar at members.merriammusic.com/calendars.

Source: 2026-27 School Policies · Members site · Help Centre, updated Sep 22, 2026 · Being reviewed

Are faculty concerts free for students?

Yes. Faculty concert tickets are included in tuition for actively enrolled students. Parents or other family members attending with the student can buy their tickets online in advance of the event.

Source: Customer Care team, updated Oct 26, 2026

What are sign-up recitals?

Sign-up recitals are optional, relaxed performances held throughout the year for students of all ages and levels, and a great warm-up for exams and festivals. They're included in your tuition. Online sign-up recitals are also offered: students submit a recording, which is shared in a YouTube premiere.

Source: 2026-27 School Policies, updated Sep 10, 2026

How do we submit a backing track for a sign-up recital?

You can submit a track when you register, or directly through the backing track form. A reminder email with the link is also sent 48 hours before the performance to students who still need to submit.

Source: Customer Care team, updated Oct 26, 2026

When are year-end recitals?

Year-end studio recitals take place in June (May and June at Oakville), so students can meet and hear others who study with the same teacher. Your teacher will give you the date and time. Online students take part through an online recital premiere.

Source: 2026-27 School Policies, updated Sep 10, 2026

What is the video log?

The video log is a professionally edited video of your child's on-site performances at qualified events during the school year (September to June). It's created for students who take part in qualified events during the year and complete a full year of lessons. If your child withdraws before the end of the year, you can reach out to purchase their video for a fee. Jam Nites, Karaoke Nights and adult events aren't included.

The download link is emailed to families by August 5 each year, with a separate link for each child. Download your video soon after it arrives: the links expire on November 30. Merriam students' camp performances also appear in the following year's video log.

Source: 2026-27 School Policies · Events team · Customer Care team, updated Oct 26, 2026

Will my child be photographed or recorded at school events?

Yes. On-site performances such as sign-up recitals, year-end recitals and festival performances are recorded for your child's video log, and the school may take photos or video during classes and events. Some events aren't recorded: Outreach recitals and Keymaster sessions, plus Jam Nites, Karaoke Nights and adult events. If we want to use your child's content for anything other than their personal video log (for example, promotion), we'll let you know and you can opt out.

Source: Terms and Conditions (Sept 2025) · Events team, updated Oct 2026

What is the event stamp card?

The event stamp card is our Event Participation Rewards Program. Students earn one stamp for each eligible event they take part in, such as sign-up recitals, Jam Nites, workshops, Keymaster sessions, concerts and StudioFest. Bring your card to each event, because stamps can't be added afterward. Online events send a virtual stamp by email. Collect 10 stamps at 10 different events and you can redeem the card at the Oakville or Vaughan front desk for a $50 bookstore gift card or $50 off next year's tuition (one reward per school year). Program events that are already included in tuition, such as year-end recitals, Enriched, Group Piano, Band Chops, choir and the Competitive Festival, aren't eligible. See the full details.

Source: Event Participation Rewards Program page · Members site, Oct 2026

Summer Lessons

What are summer flex lessons?

Qualifying programs include 4 private 30-minute summer lessons in July and August. They're flexible: you book them yourself, with any teacher, on any instrument, at any available time. It's a great chance to keep momentum over the summer or try something new.

Source: Help Centre · 2026-27 School Policies · Terms and Conditions (Sept 2025), updated Sep 10, 2026

Which programs include summer lessons?

All private lessons, group piano and group guitar include 4 summer lessons for students who start in September; some add-on programs don't. If you're not sure, ask your Education Counsellor.

Source: Terms and Conditions (Sept 2025) · 2026-27 School Policies · Help Centre, updated Sep 10, 2026

How do I book summer lessons?

Summer lesson booking opens on May 25 each year. Leading up to that date, look out for an email with booking instructions, including a booking link and a personal coupon code for each student (check your junk folder if you don't see it). Pick a teacher, instrument and time, then enter the code at checkout so you aren't charged. If you need help, contact the care team.

Source: Customer care guidance · Help Centre · Customer Care team, updated Oct 26, 2026

Can we use summer lessons toward a summer camp?

Yes. Your 4 summer lessons can be put toward a week of Merriam summer camp at the Oakville campus, which greatly reduces the camp price (in 2026 a week cost $25 when paid with summer lesson credits). When registering, choose the "use my 4 summer lessons" payment option.

Source: 2026-27 School Policies · Terms and Conditions (Sept 2025) · Customer care guidance, updated Oct 2, 2026

Can another family member use my child's summer lessons?

Yes. Summer lessons can be used by any member of your immediate family; the booking system pools your family's lessons together.

Source: Customer care guidance · School policy notes, updated Oct 18, 2026

What happens to summer lessons we don't use?

Unbooked summer lessons can't be carried over to the next school year and are forfeited at the end of the summer, so be sure to book all four.

Source: 2026-27 School Policies · Terms and Conditions (Sept 2025) · Customer care guidance, updated Sep 10, 2026

Can we reschedule or cancel a booked summer lesson, or get a make-up if we miss one?

You can reschedule or cancel using the link in your confirmation email, as long as it's before the change cut-off (closer to the lesson, contact the care team). Cancelling a lesson booked with your summer lesson credits returns that credit to your family's balance. A summer lesson that is simply missed is not made up.

Source: 2026-27 School Policies · School policy notes, updated Oct 18, 2026

Rescheduling / Make-Up Weeks

What are make-up weeks, and when are they this year?

Two weeks at the end of each term are set aside only for make-up lessons; no regular lessons run during them. For 2026-27, make-up weeks are January 31 to February 13, 2027 and June 20 to July 3, 2027. You can also check the school calendar at members.merriammusic.com/calendars.

Source: Help Centre: Make-Up Weeks · 2026-27 School Policies · Terms and Conditions (Sept 2025), updated Sep 10, 2026

Who schedules my child's make-up lesson?

Your teacher arranges it with you. Most make-ups happen during make-up weeks, but your teacher may offer an earlier time. Please contact your teacher for details.

Source: Help Centre · 2026-27 School Policies · Terms and Conditions (Sept 2025), updated Sep 10, 2026

How many make-up lessons can a private student get for their own absences?

Private students can receive one make-up per semester (two per school year) when they let the teacher know at least 6 hours before the lesson.

Source: Help Centre · 2026-27 School Policies · Terms and Conditions (Sept 2025), updated Sep 10, 2026

What if we miss the make-up lesson itself?

A missed make-up lesson can't be rescheduled again, so please confirm the make-up time with your teacher and let them know right away if something changes.

Source: 2026-27 School Policies, updated Sep 10, 2026

What happens to lessons that fall on a statutory holiday?

The school is closed on statutory holidays, and lessons that would have fallen on those days are automatically rescheduled as make-ups, usually during make-up weeks. Sometimes your teacher will schedule them earlier, so please check with your teacher to confirm.

Source: Help Centre: Statutory Holidays · School policy notes, updated Oct 19, 2026

Do lessons cancelled for bad weather get a make-up?

Yes. If a lesson is cancelled because of inclement weather, a make-up is provided. Your teacher schedules the make-up date and time directly with you.

Source: Customer Care team, updated Oct 26, 2026

Absence Reporting (illness)

My child can't make it to a lesson today. Who do I tell?

Please email your teacher directly. If you don't have your teacher's email, choose "Speak to a Person" in the chat and give the student's name, the date of the absence and the teacher's name, and we'll let the teacher know for you.

Source: Help Centre: Not able to make a lesson today?, updated Feb 12, 2025

How much notice do we need to give to qualify for a make-up?

At least 6 hours before the lesson. Private students who give 6 or more hours' notice can receive a make-up (up to one per semester). With less notice, or once the semester's make-up has been used, the lesson is recorded as missed and isn't made up.

Source: Help Centre · 2026-27 School Policies · Terms and Conditions (Sept 2025), updated Oct 19, 2026

My child will miss a group class. Is there a make-up?

Group classes run as scheduled for the rest of the class, so student absences aren't made up. Ask your teacher for that week's homework so your child can keep pace before the next class (homework sheets may also be left at the reception desk).

Source: Help Centre · Terms and Conditions (Sept 2025), updated Sep 19, 2025

Who is allowed to cancel a lesson for my child?

Only the parent or guardian on the account and the authorized contacts you listed on your Terms and Conditions form can cancel scheduled lessons or access your child's account information. To add or change an authorized contact, speak with the care team.

Source: Terms and Conditions (Sept 2025), updated Sep 19, 2025

Exams

What are Keyfest exams and why should my child take one?

Keyfest exams are Merriam's own certification exams for students in our Keyfest curriculum. They're a great motivator and a clear way to track progress: students receive marked feedback and can earn diplomas, exam prizes and Keyfest examination scholarships of up to $300 (exam scholarships are awarded each October). Ask your teacher when your child is ready.

Source: Help Centre: Keyfest Exams · 2026-27 School Policies, updated Sep 10, 2026

Who can register for an exam in 2026-27?

For 2026-27, new exam registrations are open to Piano and Voice students. Group piano students and Enriched students follow their own program assessments, so this registration doesn't apply to them.

Source: School policy notes · 2026-27 School Policies, updated Oct 18, 2026

When are exams held and when are applications due?

Exams run in three sessions: February, June/July and August. For 2026-27, applications are due Wednesday, November 25 (February session), March 10 (June session) and May 19 (August session). Check the school calendar for exact exam dates.

Source: 2026-27 School Policies, updated Sep 10, 2026; February deadline updated by the exams team, Oct 22, 2026

How do we register for an exam?

Talk with your teacher first to make sure your child is ready. Then register online: you'll sign in with your primary email address and a one-time code, and you'll see only the students in your household. Only the session that is currently open will be offered. Questions can go to exams@merriammusic.com.

Source: School policy notes · Help Centre · 2026-27 School Policies, updated Oct 18, 2026

What is Exam Stream?

Exam Stream lets families commit to one exam for the year early, at a lower price than registering mid-year. Benefits include first priority for exam scheduling and early access to exam resources. Sign-up is only at the start of the school year (deadline September 30), and your child needs an active private Piano or Voice lesson this year (group piano doesn't qualify). Exam Stream covers one sitting; you still register for your chosen session later at no extra cost.

Cost: Junior 1–4 $110, Intermediate 1 to Advanced 2 $121, Senior 1–2 $132, Artist $143. You can pay in full in September, or in equal monthly payments on the 1st of each month from September to July.

Source: Help Centre: Keyfest Exam Stream · School policy notes · Customer Care team, updated Oct 26, 2026

We paid for Exam Stream but my child won't be sitting the exam. What happens?

Our exams coordinator reviews each case individually and will decide whether the amount is carried forward, refunded or forfeited. Please contact exams@merriammusic.com as early as possible.

Source: School policy notes, updated Oct 20, 2026

How do we submit music or accompaniment tracks for an exam?

Go to the Exams page and choose either "Music Submission for In-Person Exams" or "Online Exam Submissions", whichever matches the exam you registered for, then upload the required materials. History assignment links are on the same page.

Source: Help Centre: Music Submission For Exams · Members site: Exam & Festival, updated Oct 20, 2026

How do we receive exam results, and what do the standings mean?

Results are emailed to families once the exams coordinator releases them. Standings are Gold, Silver, Bronze or Insufficient Passing Grade. For Keyfest diplomas, the diploma mark is the average of the required exams in that level, with Gold at 85 and above, Silver 75 to 84 and Bronze 60 to 74.

Source: School policy notes, updated Oct 20, 2026

Can my child's own teacher be their examiner?

For piano, no: piano students are always examined by a teacher other than their own. For other instruments, your child’s own teacher may be their examiner.

Source: Exams team, updated Oct 22, 2026

Should my child follow Keyfest or RCM?

Our teachers are trained in both. The right path depends on your child's goals, so talk with your teacher or choose "Speak to a Person" to discuss your situation.

Source: Help Centre: Keyfest vs RCM, updated Oct 27, 2025

Festival

What's the difference between the competitive Festival and StudioFest?

The MSM Competitive Festival is adjudicated by an outside (non-Merriam) adjudicator, and students receive written comments, a mark and possible placement. StudioFest is a relaxed, non-competitive performance with feedback and no marks or placements; it can be live on stage or online (submit a recording and receive written feedback by email). One StudioFest entry is included for each enrolment; competitive entries have a small fee.

Source: Help Centre: Merriam School Of Music (MSM) Festival · 2026-27 School Policies · School policy notes, updated Oct 19, 2026

When do the Festival and StudioFest take place?

The competitive Festival runs from January to February each year. StudioFest runs from January to March, depending on the number of entries. Check the Festival page and your campus calendar for this year's dates.

Source: Customer Care team, updated Oct 26, 2026

When does Festival and StudioFest registration open and close?

For 2026-27, registration for both the Festival and StudioFest opens November 1. Competitive Festival registration closes December 19, and in-person StudioFest registration closes January 9. A registration is confirmed once it's paid.

Source: 2026-27 School Policies · Festival coordinator, Oct 2026

Can we change our piece, class or performance time after registering?

After payment, you can request a change to your piece or class (or a withdrawal) through the family portal, and the festival coordinator will review it; any price difference is handled by staff. Families can't change their own performance date or time. If organizers revise the schedule, affected families are notified.

Source: School policy notes, updated Oct 19, 2026

How and when do we submit music and tracks for the Festival?

Tracks are submitted through the festival portal and are due no later than one week before your performance.

Source: Customer Care team, updated Oct 26, 2026

How much does it cost to enter the competitive Festival?

In 2025, competitive entry fees ranged by level from $18 (Junior 1-4) to $26 (Artist), and StudioFest was free for Merriam students (one entry per enrolment). Please check the current syllabus or ask the festival coordinator for this year's fees.

Source: School policy notes · 2026-27 School Policies, updated Oct 19, 2026 · Being reviewed

Are festival fees refundable?

Because schedules and adjudicators are booked in advance, festival fees are non-refundable once the schedule is set.

Source: Customer Care team, updated Oct 26, 2026

Does my child need to perform from memory?

For 2026-27, every competitive class must be performed from memory except Woodwind classes and the drum/percussion technical selection, which may use music. If a memory requirement isn't met, your child still performs and receives feedback, but the mark and placement are held for the coordinator's decision.

Source: School policy notes, updated Oct 19, 2026

What if we arrive late on festival day?

Performers who arrive late to a session may be allowed to perform, but will only receive comments from the adjudicator. If adjudication of their class has already begun, they won't be considered for placement.

Source: Customer Care team, updated Oct 26, 2026

Can my child enter the Festival on an instrument they don't take lessons in?

Yes. No approval is needed; you can add a note for the coordinator on the registration form, and they may call you. For fixed-repertoire classes, choose from the approved piece list; for own-choice classes, enter your own piece.

Source: School policy notes, updated Oct 19, 2026

Will my child's full name appear in the festival programme?

Printed and day-of programmes show the student's full name and teacher. If you prefer, you can opt out at registration and only your child's initials will be shown. The online programme requires sign-in.

Source: School policy notes, updated Oct 19, 2026

When do festival results arrive?

Competitive placements are decided on the day of the event. The adjudicator's written comments are emailed 5 business days after the event date.

Source: Customer Care team, updated Oct 26, 2026

Are there scholarships and awards at the Festival?

Yes. Scholarships are awarded by nomination in March from participation in the competitive Festival. The named scholarships go to the student with the highest average across the required categories; the Festival page lists each one. Awards are presented after each session.

Source: 2026-27 School Policies · School policy notes · Festival coordinator, Oct 2026

How are marks and placements decided at the competitive Festival?

Every entrant receives a participation ribbon. First place receives a trophy, second place a silver medal and third place a bronze medal. If there's only one entry in a category, awards are based on marks: 85% and above for 1st place, 75% to 84% for 2nd place and 65% to 74% for 3rd place.

Source: Customer Care team, updated Oct 26, 2026

Can we request a particular performance time, or for siblings to perform together?

For StudioFest, yes: you can note preferences (times you're available, siblings together, a teacher's day) when you register. They're treated as preferences, not guarantees, and the coordinator does their best to accommodate them. The competitive Festival runs each category on a set day and time.

Source: School policy notes, updated Oct 19, 2026 · Festival coordinator, Oct 2026

Where do I find the Festival syllabus and rules?

The syllabus, rules and regulations and scholarship information are posted on the Festival page.

Source: Members site: Exam & Festival · Help Centre, updated Oct 20, 2026 · Being reviewed

Camps

What camps does Merriam offer, and who can attend?

We run week-long, music-themed day camps at the Oakville campus: eight weeks of summer camps for ages 4 to 16, and March Break camps for ages 5 to 14. Camps are open to everyone (you don't need to be a Merriam student), no experience is required for most camps, and every week ends with a Friday performance. Merriam students receive a discounted price.

Source: Help Centre: Summer Music Camps · Help Centre: March Break Music Camps · Members site, updated Oct 9, 2026

When does camp registration open?

Registration for both March Break and summer camps opens on January 15 each year.

Source: Customer Care team, updated Oct 26, 2026

What is the summer camp cancellation and refund policy?

For summer 2026, a full refund was available before May 31. From June 1, withdrawals received in writing were refunded 75% with more than 4 weeks' notice, 50% with more than 3 weeks and 25% with more than 2 weeks. Once camp starts there are no refunds. If Merriam cancels a camp for low enrolment, you receive a full refund.

Source: 2026 Summer Camp Parent Guide · Members site, updated Oct 2, 2026 · Being reviewed

What is the March Break camp cancellation and refund policy?

For March Break 2026, a full refund was available before February 15. After that, withdrawals received in writing were refunded 75%, 50% or 25% with more than 4, 3 or 2 weeks' notice. Once the camp week begins there are no refunds, and a camp cancelled for low enrolment is fully refunded.

Source: Members site · 2026 March Break Camp Parent Guide, updated Oct 9, 2026 · Being reviewed

My child will miss a day of camp. What should I do?

Please email summer@merriammusic.com or call 905-829-2020 to let us know. Missed camp days can't be made up or refunded.

Source: 2026 Summer Camp Parent Guide · 2026 March Break Camp Parent Guide · Members site, updated Oct 9, 2026

What are the drop-off and pick-up rules?

On Monday, a parent or guardian walks the camper into their homeroom to sign in. Every day, campers are signed out by a parent, guardian or authorized pick-up person, who will be asked for photo ID. Older campers may sign themselves in and out with written consent from a parent, and late fees apply after pick-up time.

Source: 2026 Summer Camp Parent Guide · 2026 March Break Camp Parent Guide · Members site, updated Oct 9, 2026

Is extended care available at camp?

Yes. Camp runs from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm, and extended care is available for an additional fee before and after camp: mornings from 8:00 to 9:00 am and afternoons from 4:30 to 5:30 pm.

Source: Customer Care team, updated Oct 26, 2026

How are campers supervised?

We keep a 1:8 staff-to-camper ratio (high-school volunteers are extra and not counted in the ratio). All camp staff hold Standard First Aid and CPR C certification, have a clear criminal record and vulnerable sector check, and complete pre-camp training. Campers are supervised at all times.

Source: 2026 Summer Camp Parent Guide · 2026 March Break Camp Parent Guide · Members site, updated Oct 9, 2026

What should my child bring to camp?

A backpack, comfortable clothes, a labelled water bottle, a lunch and snacks that won't spoil, and weather-appropriate outdoor gear (sunscreen and a hat in summer, snow gear at March Break). Instrument camps need their own instrument or gear (for example guitar, ukulele, drumsticks and ear plugs, or headphones for piano). Merriam is a nut-free school, and pizza lunch can be pre-paid at registration. Please leave electronics, money and toys at home.

Source: 2026 Summer Camp Parent Guide · 2026 March Break Camp Parent Guide · Members site, updated Oct 9, 2026

Can family watch the Friday performance?

Yes. Every camp ends with a Friday afternoon performance, livestreamed on YouTube (the link is in your reminder email), with limited seating in Studio A. A professional video of your child's performance can be purchased for $50, and Merriam students' camp performances are included in the next year's video log.

Source: 2026 Summer Camp Parent Guide · 2026 March Break Camp Parent Guide · Members site, updated Oct 9, 2026

How do I change or add to my camp registration?

Email summer@merriammusic.com with the changes you need (subject to availability). To add more weeks, register for the additional camps at members.merriammusic.com.

Source: 2026 Summer Camp Parent Guide · 2026 March Break Camp Parent Guide · Members site, updated Oct 9, 2026

What is the camp behaviour policy?

Campers are expected to take part, follow staff directions and treat everyone and everything with respect. Staff first redirect a camper; a second occurrence means a talk with the camp coordinator and a note to parents; a third means parents are asked to pick the child up. Serious behaviour (such as abuse, theft or damage) can lead to immediate suspension without a refund.

Source: 2026 Summer Camp Parent Guide · 2026 March Break Camp Parent Guide · Members site, updated Oct 9, 2026

Website / Account Help

Where can I find the school calendar?

Go to members.merriammusic.com/calendars for printable calendars for Oakville, Vaughan, Toronto and Online (MMOA), each campus's event calendar, and calendars for choir and band programs.

Source: Members site: Calendars, updated Sep 22, 2026

Does the school close for bad weather, and where do I check?

Inclement weather notices are posted at members.merriammusic.com/weather-updates by 12 noon on the affected day. Our administrative offices stay open, and each teacher decides for their own studio whether lessons go ahead as scheduled, move online, or are cancelled with a make-up at a later date. If your lesson moves online, your teacher will email you the link.

Source: Members site: Weather Updates · Customer Care team, updated Oct 26, 2026

How do I reach a real person?

Choose "Speak to a Person" in the chat, email care@merriammusic.com, or call 905-829-2020 (Oakville). You're also welcome to visit the front desk. For exams, email exams@merriammusic.com; for camps, summer@merriammusic.com; for events, events@merriammusic.com.

Source: Help Centre · 2026-27 School Policies · 2026 Summer Camp Parent Guide, updated Sep 10, 2026

I received a lesson cancellation email with a "Confirm" button. What is it?

When a lesson is cancelled, every guardian on the account receives an email with one confirm button. Pressing it lets us know your family has seen the change (one press counts for the whole family). If no one confirms, our team may call you to make sure you got the message.

Source: School policy notes, updated Oct 20, 2026

How do I sign the enrolment Terms and Conditions online?

We email you a one-time link to the agreement, which includes the Terms and Conditions, Privacy Policy and Enrolment Agreement. Tick "I have read and agree" on each page, then add a payment method; your enrolment is secured once both are complete. Once submitted, the agreement can't be edited, and you'll receive a confirmation with a copy of what you signed. If we send a new link, it replaces the earlier one.

Source: School policy notes, updated Oct 19, 2026

How do I order music books?

Order from our online bookstore at books.merriammusic.com. You'll get an email when a pick-up order is ready, or when a delivery order has shipped. Please buy books your teacher recommends.

Source: Help Centre: Merriam Bookstore · Terms and Conditions (Sept 2025), updated Sep 19, 2025

Other

When is the school closed in 2026-27?

The school is closed on: Labour Day weekend (September 6 and 7), Thanksgiving Monday (October 12), the holiday break (December 20 to January 2), Family Day (February 15), March Break (March 14 to 20), Good Friday (March 26), Victoria Day (May 24) and Canada Day (July 1). No regular lessons run during make-up weeks (January 31 to February 13 and June 20 to July 3).

Source: 2026-27 School Policies, updated Sep 10, 2026

Can my child earn high school credits through Merriam?

Yes. Merriam High School is inspected and approved by the Ontario Ministry of Education to grant credits toward the Ontario Secondary School Diploma. Credit courses can be taken on their own or combined with private lessons, and run in two terms (September to February and February to June). Visit highschool.merriammusic.com, then choose "Speak to a Person" or email care@merriammusic.com to register.

Source: Help Centre: Highschool Courses and Credits · School policy notes, updated Oct 14, 2026

Is there Wi-Fi for families at the school?

Our Wi-Fi is reserved for classroom and office computers so that lessons and support run smoothly, so public Wi-Fi isn't available.

Source: Help Centre: WIFI, updated Oct 27, 2025

Can we book Merriam's recording studio?

Yes. Fill out the form at merriammusic.com/studio/contact-us and our production team will follow up with pricing and details. The studios are inside the music school and operate 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday to Friday; weekends can be arranged for some projects.

Source: Help Centre: Booking Studio Time for a Recording, updated Oct 27, 2025

Where can we find sheet music for a specific song?

Our teachers recommend Sheet Music Digital (sheetmusicdigital.com) for digital transcriptions; you can create an account to browse. For method books, use the Merriam online bookstore (see Website and account help).

Source: Help Centre: Sheet Music Digital, updated May 27, 2025

Can my child join a band, choir or production program as well as lessons?

Yes. Merriam members can add programs such as Merriam Voices choir, BandStart, BeatStart, Songwriting & Production, Band Rewind (adults) and Band Chops (audition), usually at a member discount. Speak with your Education Counsellor or use the online sign-up on the Extended & Add-On Programming page.

Source: Members site: Extended & Add-On Programming · School policy notes, updated Oct 14, 2026 · Being reviewed

Can the school end an enrolment?

Merriam may end an enrolment for non-payment of fees or for disruptive behaviour, and may change, combine or cancel classes when enrolment is too low.

Source: Terms and Conditions (Sept 2025), updated Sep 19, 2025

How is our family's personal information used?

Merriam collects personal information only to manage your account and provide the services you asked for, and protects it under Canada's privacy law (PIPEDA). We never sell or share your contact information with third parties without your permission, and we use email only for information related to your enrolment.

Source: Terms and Conditions (Sept 2025), updated Sep 19, 2025

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