DEVELOPING THE COMPLETE MUSICIAN

Minstrel School of Music provides personalized piano education that integrates technique, aural skills, music theory, improvisation, creativity, performance, and artistic development. Founded by Dr. Alton L. Merrell, the school equips musicians to develop their unique musical voice while pursuing excellence across jazz, classical, gospel, contemporary, R&B, and commercial music.

MEET DR. ALTON L. MERRELL

PIANIST. EDUCATOR. COMPOSER. MENTOR.

Dr. Alton L. Merrell is an accomplished pianist, Hammond B-3 organist, composer, arranger, and educator with more than 25 years of teaching and professional performance experience. He is committed to developing musicians of excellence through an approach that integrates strong musicianship, creativity, artistic expression, and real-world performance experience.

Dr. Merrell holds a PhD in Jazz Studies from the University of Pittsburgh, a Master of Music in Piano Performance, and a Bachelor of Music in Music Education and Performance.

Drawing upon extensive experience as a performer, music director, and university educator, Dr. Merrell provides students with an integrated approach to musical development — connecting technique, aural skills, theory, improvisation, creativity, performance, and artistic expression. His teaching is designed to help each student develop not only as a pianist, but as a complete musician with an authentic musical voice.

Student Success Stories

Celebrating the growth, achievements, and musical journeys of Minstrel School of Music students.

After completing the College Preparatory Program at Minstrel School of Music, Ray successfully auditioned for Duquesne University and earned a substantial scholarship package covering more than 80% of his tuition, room, and board. Through focused preparation, Raymond developed the musicianship, performance skills, and audition readiness needed to take the next step in his musical education. His success demonstrates what can happen when talent is paired with disciplined preparation and personalized instruction.

Raymond Porter IIIDuquesne University Scholarship Recipient

After completing the College Preparatory Program at Minstrel School of Music, Kenny successfully auditioned for the prestigious New England Conservatory of Music, where he continued his jazz studies with renowned pianist and educator Danilo Pérez. After graduating from New England Conservatory, Kenny established himself professionally in New York City, where he works as a church music director and jazz pianist/artist. Kenny’s journey demonstrates what focused preparation, disciplined study, and personalized mentorship can help students accomplish—from preparing for a competitive college audition to developing the musicianship needed for a professional career.

Kenny PeaglerCollege Graduate, Church Music Director, Jazz Artist

After earning his bachelor’s degree in music, Lucas recognized that completing a degree was not the end of his musical development. He wanted to deepen his command of the keyboard, expand his musicianship across styles, and take his playing to a professional level. He chose to continue his advanced study with Dr. Alton Merrell, whose expertise in jazz, classical, gospel, pop, and contemporary music provided the breadth and depth he was seeking. Through personalized instruction, Dr. Merrell helped him identify specific musical goals and develop practical methods for achieving them. His continued development contributed to a career that has included professional performance and touring as a musician. “Alton’s ability to identify and encourage his students’ personal goals, and to establish methods of application to achieve those goals, is what makes studying with him a true joy. He puts students on a path to long-term knowledge and enjoyment of music. Even one lesson with Dr. Alton Merrell can help make you not just a better musician, but also a better person.”

Bachelor’s Degree in Music → Advanced Private Study → Professional Touring Musician

Lucas BowmanProfessional Musician

“Studying with Dr. Alton was an amazing experience. He challenged me because he wanted the best for me, and over the time he mentored and taught me, I could clearly see my growth as a pianist and musician. Lessons were serious, but they were also fun—sometimes we would put the lesson aside and just jam, which helped me experience music in a completely different way. What impacted me most was that Dr. Merrell cared about more than just my piano playing. His faith, commitment to excellence, and investment in me helped shape the musician I am today. I am now serving as a church music director and keyboard player. I’m grateful for the foundation he helped me build.”

RJ WilliamsChurch Music Director and Keyboardist

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn more about our approach to piano education, musicianship development, and personalized study.

What levels of pianists do you teach?

Minstrel School of Music works with developing through advanced pianists, including serious young musicians, adult learners, college-bound students, church musicians, college students, and professional musicians. Instruction is personalized according to each student’s experience, musical goals, strengths, and areas for development.

What musical styles do you teach?

Instruction includes jazz, classical, gospel/church music, contemporary, R&B, and commercial music. Students may focus on a particular style while developing the broader musicianship necessary to become versatile and expressive pianists.

What is the educational philosophy of Minstrel School of Music?

Our philosophy is centered on developing the complete musician. Study integrates piano technique, aural skills, music theory, improvisation, composition, listening, creativity, repertoire, performance, and artistic expression so students understand music as well as perform it.

Do you prepare students for college music auditions?

Yes. College-bound musicians can receive focused preparation in repertoire, technique, improvisation, theory, aural skills, musicianship, and audition readiness. Preparation is personalized according to the requirements of the colleges and music programs the student is pursuing.

Do you work with professional and aspiring professional musicians?

Yes. Advanced and professional musicians can receive individualized instruction designed to strengthen musicianship, expand harmonic and improvisational vocabulary, refine technique, develop artistic identity, and address specific professional goals.

How can I begin studying at Minstrel School of Music?

Begin by exploring our Private Lessons, Online Courses, and Piano Lesson Membership options. Students interested in personalized private study can select ENROLL NOW to begin the enrollment process.

Start Your Musical Journey Today

Whether you are developing your foundation, preparing for college study, expanding your professional musicianship, or pursuing a lifelong passion for music, Minstrel School of Music offers a personalized path for your continued growth.

By clicking ENROLL NOW, you agree to our Terms and Conditions and are excited to begin your musical adventure!

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