Best Music Schools in the US

Music is a universal language that transcends borders and brings people together. Whether you dream of becoming a virtuoso pianist, a renowned conductor, a music educator, or a sought-after composer, attending a prestigious music school in the United States can provide you with the training and knowledge you need to succeed.

Top music schools in the United States have a long history of producing exceptional musicians, composers, and scholars. In this comprehensive guide from Bold.org, we'll explore some of the best music schools in the US. From the illustrious Juilliard School in New York City to the innovative Berklee College of Music in Boston, we'll take an in-depth look at the best colleges and institutions that shape the future of music in America.

Higher education comes at a hefty price tag, and music schools, in particular, can cost more than the average college tuition. Applying for music scholarships can help reduce the cost of your music education and make prestigious music schools more accessible.

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Best Music Schools in the US

The Juilliard School

Located in the heart of New York City, The Juilliard School is practically synonymous with excellence in the performing arts. Founded in 1905, Juilliard is one of the world’s most prestigious music schools, with a reputation for producing top-tier musicians, actors, and dancers.

One of the hallmarks of The Juilliard School is its unparalleled faculty, consisting of some of the world's most renowned musicians, actors, and dancers. Students have the unique opportunity to receive instruction and mentorship from these distinguished artists who bring their wealth of knowledge and experience to the classroom and the rehearsal studio.

Juilliard's location in the heart of Manhattan offers students an unrivaled advantage regarding performance opportunities. The school's proximity to world-class venues, such as Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, and the Metropolitan Opera House, provides students access to the global stage. Juilliard students regularly perform in these iconic venues, allowing them to hone their craft and gain valuable exposure to the public and industry professionals.

Furthermore, being situated in New York City, the epicenter of the performing arts world, Juilliard offers unparalleled networking opportunities. A thriving artistic community surrounds students, and they have access to a vast network of alumni who have achieved remarkable success in their respective fields. Connecting with musicians in ensembles such as the New York City Philharmonic or the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra inspires Juilliard students to hone their craft.

A degree from The Juilliard School is not just a qualification; it's a passport to a successful career in the performing arts. Juilliard’s most notable alumni include luminaries such as Yo-Yo Ma, Itzhak Perlman, and Sarah Jessica Parker. The institution's name carries tremendous weight and opens doors in the competitive world of music and the arts.

Berklee College of Music

Nestled in the heart of Boston, Massachusetts, Berklee College of Music is a globally recognized institution celebrated for its contemporary and popular music programs. Since its founding in 1945, Berklee has been at the forefront of music education, preparing students for careers in music performance, music composition, production, and the music business.

Berklee College of Music distinguishes itself by emphasizing contemporary music genres, including rock, pop, jazz, electronic music, and more. This forward-thinking approach aligns with the evolving landscape of the music industry, making Berklee an ideal choice for aspiring musicians who seek to navigate the ever-changing world of modern music.

The school's prime location in Boston provides access to a thriving music industry. Berklee students can connect with professionals in the field, attend industry events, and even intern at major record labels, recording studios, and music companies, setting the stage for successful careers.

Furthermore, Berklee encourages students to explore entrepreneurial opportunities in the music industry. Whether you aspire to start your record label, music production company, or artist management agency, Berklee equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to successfully navigate the business side of music.

Curtis Institute of Music

Located in the heart of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the Curtis Institute of Music is a prestigious and exclusive institution known for its exceptional musical education. Founded in 1924, Curtis has gained a reputation for offering small class sizes, personalized instruction, and full-tuition scholarships to all its students. This unique approach to music education sets Curtis apart as a top destination for aspiring musicians.

Curtis is renowned for its intimate and supportive environment, with fewer than 200 students in total. This small student-to-faculty ratio allows for personalized attention and mentorship, creating a close-knit community where students receive individualized guidance from their teachers.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the Curtis Institute of Music is its commitment to providing full-tuition scholarships to all students. This generous financial support ensures that talented musicians, regardless of their financial backgrounds, can access a world-class education in music.

Outside scholarships from individual donors and organizations can also help support your music education! Apply for band scholarships on Bold.org by creating a free Bold.org profile.

Curtis strongly emphasizes performance, providing students with numerous opportunities to showcase their talents. The school's frequent recitals, chamber music performances, and orchestral concerts provide invaluable stage experience, allowing students to refine their skills and build confidence as performers. Students also have ample opportunities to collaborate with other music students at their school through ensembles and other performance groups.

Moreover, Curtis's rigorous training programs are designed to prepare students for the highest levels of musical excellence. Admission is highly competitive, with an audition process that ensures only the most gifted and dedicated musicians are admitted. Once accepted, students are immersed in an environment that challenges them to reach their full potential.

Indiana University Jacobs School of Music

Nestled in the charming town of Bloomington, Indiana, the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music stands as one of the premier music schools in the United States. Founded in 1921, the Jacobs School has a storied history of excellence in music education and a reputation for producing outstanding performers, composers, educators, and scholars.

One of the strengths of the Jacobs School of Music is its diverse range of programs catering to aspiring musicians' varied interests and aspirations. Whether you have a passion for classical, jazz, opera, early music, or contemporary compositions, Jacobs offers a program tailored to your individual goals.

Furthermore, the Jacobs School boasts an internationally renowned faculty comprising accomplished musicians, composers, conductors, and scholars. These dedicated mentors provide students with the guidance and expertise needed to excel in their chosen fields, fostering an environment of artistic growth and excellence.

Collaboration is at the heart of the Jacobs School's ethos. Students can collaborate not only with their peers but also across disciplines within the university. This interdisciplinary approach enriches the educational experience and encourages students to explore innovative intersections between music and other fields.

The school boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including well-equipped practice rooms, recording studios, and concert halls. These resources provide students with the tools they need to excel in their musical pursuits and embrace the latest in music technology.

Johns Hopkins University Peabody Institute

Located in the vibrant city of Baltimore, Maryland, the Peabody Institute is a distinguished and integral part of the renowned Johns Hopkins University. Established in 1857, Peabody has a storied history and is consistently ranked among the top music schools in the United States.

One of the unique aspects of the Peabody Institute is its affiliation with Johns Hopkins University, a world-renowned institution known for its excellence in research and education. This affiliation allows Peabody students to explore interdisciplinary studies beyond music education. Whether you're interested in music theory or combining music with psychology, medicine, or any other field, Peabody provides the resources and support to pursue your interests.

Students at Peabody can showcase their skills in various settings, from intimate recitals to grand performances in historic concert hearts. Nestled in the heart of Baltimore, the school is surrounded by a rich cultural scene. This proximity to a thriving arts community allows Peabody students to engage with the broader cultural landscape and gain exposure to various artistic influences.

Not to mention, Peabody's faculty consists of accomplished musicians, composers, and educators who are passionate about nurturing the next generation of musicians. These dedicated mentors guide music students one-on-one, helping them hone their craft and reach their full potential.

Northwestern University Bienen School of Music

Nestled in the vibrant city of Evanston, Illinois, the Bienen School of Music at Northwestern University has long been a cornerstone of excellence in music education. Known for its commitment to nurturing musical talent and academic rigor, the Bienen School of Music offers a diverse range of programs, including classical music, jazz, and contemporary music.

At the heart of the Bienen School of Music's success lies its impressive faculty. The school boasts world-class musicians and educators who bring their expertise and passion to the classroom and rehearsal studio. This exceptional faculty plays a pivotal role in the undergraduate programs, guiding students on their musical journey and offering invaluable mentorship and inspiration.

The Bienen School of Music provides a broad spectrum of programs catering to aspiring musicians' varied interests and aspirations. Whether you dream of becoming a classical virtuoso, a jazz improviser, a composer, or a music educator, Bienen offers programs tailored to your individual goals.

Students at Bienen have access to cutting-edge facilities and resources that facilitate artistic exploration and growth. The school's newly constructed music building is a testament to its commitment to providing students with the best possible environment for learning and creating music.

Moreover, Northwestern University fosters a collaborative atmosphere that encourages students to explore various musical genres and collaborate with peers from different backgrounds. This diversity of perspectives enriches the learning experience and prepares students for the interdisciplinary nature of today's music industry.

Oberlin College Conservatory of Music

Located in the picturesque town of Oberlin, Ohio, the Oberlin College Conservatory of Music is renowned for its holistic approach to music education and its commitment to nurturing both music performance and education. Established in 1865, Oberlin Conservatory has a rich history of promoting diversity and inclusion in music while providing a well-rounded education for its students.

One of the defining features of Oberlin Conservatory is its dedication to providing an intimate and supportive educational environment. With small class sizes and a close-knit community, students benefit from individualized attention and mentorship from faculty members who are passionate about their craft.

Oberlin offers a unique opportunity for students to pursue a double degree in music and another field, such as the liberal arts or sciences. This interdisciplinary approach allows students to tailor their education to their specific interests and opens doors to diverse career paths within and beyond music.

Not to mention, Oberlin College Conservatory of Music has a storied history of promoting diversity and inclusion in music education. It was one of the first institutions in the United States to admit African-American students and women, making it a pioneer in breaking down barriers in classical music. The School of Music is also dedicated to community engagement and encourages students to connect with the broader Oberlin community. Through outreach programs, educational initiatives, and collaborative projects, students have the opportunity to use their musical talents to make a positive impact on society.

New England Conservatory

Nestled in the heart of Boston, Massachusetts, the New England Conservatory (NEC) stands as one of the oldest and most prestigious conservatories in the United States. Founded in 1867, NEC has a rich history of excellence in music education and a commitment to producing exceptional performers, composers, and educators.

NEC has a long and storied history in fine arts, dating back over a century, making it one of the foundational institutions in American music education. Throughout its history, NEC has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of classical music in the United States.

Additionally, NEC provides a wealth of performance opportunities for its students. From intimate solo recitals to large ensemble performances in the renowned Jordan Hall, students have ample chances to hone their skills and gain valuable stage experience. Jordan Hall, in particular, is celebrated for its acoustics and is considered one of the finest concert halls in the world.

The New England Conservatory is also deeply committed to community engagement. Through various outreach programs and educational initiatives, students can connect with the broader Boston community, using their musical talents to inspire and uplift others.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Music Schools in the US

What criteria should I consider when choosing a music school?

When selecting a music school to apply to, consider factors such as faculty expertise, available programs and majors, facilities and resources, location, financial aid opportunities, and alumni success. Take the time to find a school that aligns with your musical aspirations and offers the support you need to achieve your goal.

How competitive is the admissions process for top music schools?

Admission to the top music schools in the US is highly competitive. Schools typically require a rigorous audition process, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and sometimes interviews. Applicants need to demonstrate exceptional musical talent and commitment to their chosen field.

Are scholarships and financial aid available for aspiring musicians?

Yes, many music schools offer scholarships and financial aid to help offset tuition costs. These opportunities may be based on talent, need, or a combination of both. Be sure to research each school's financial aid offerings and deadlines and apply for the scholarships you qualify for.

Music scholarships on Bold.org can also help supplement any need-based or merit-based scholarships provided by music schools. Check out our Scholarship Blog to learn more about how to get scholarships and read scholarship essay examples!