Julianne B. Merrill

Growing up surrounded by church music and opera, music director Julianne Merrill took to the piano at age three and hasn’t stepped back from the keyboard since. Whether on Broadway, at concerts and galas, or in workshops, the Indianapolis native has earned a reputation for bringing a spirit of creative partnership to every show. “Everyone has such a vibrant, creative vision and life,” she says. “I love meeting new people and collaborating with them and taking their ideas and shaping them into something truly meaningful.” Merrill also works her magic on the computer as a keyboard programmer and playback engineer. As a queer conductor and musician, she hopes her presence onstage and in the pit might inspire others who see themselves in her. Merrill credits The L Word for her awakening, and says it gave her the courage to accept her own truth. She hopes her visibility might encourage others to live authentically and confidently. Also known by the artist name PatchMaster, Merrill shows up prepared for anything and doesn’t expect favors. “I strive to live by three guiding principles: to thine own self be true, love one another, and trust the process.” She adds, “Setbacks and adversity certainly happen; they can tank me emotionally, and I can feel like a total failure and imposter. But I continue to try to remember to trust the process…It all seems to work out. Especially if you live your truth and treat others with kindness and respect.” –MH