The Top 5 Music Conservatories In The US

Eric Lewis Live Piano Performance
Photo by Frank Gruber

When it comes to pursuing a music education, there are numerous options available across the United States. However, aspiring musicians who aim to be the best in their field should consider enrolling in one of the top 5 music conservatories in the country. These universities consistently rank among the best in their field and offer unique advantages that can further develop the knowledge and talent of accepted students.

One of the most renowned music schools in the world is The Juilliard School, located in New York City, NY. With over a century of experience in educating young talents, Juilliard has fostered a community that nurtures students’ skills and helps them establish professional connections. The school has produced numerous successful musicians who are recognized worldwide.

Boston, Massachusetts is home to the New England Conservatory (NEC). The NEC captivates New Englanders with year-round concerts in the prestigious Jordan Hall, known for its exceptional acoustics. As the United States’ longest-running independent music institution, the NEC offers diploma programs and Bachelor’s through Doctoral degrees to its students.

The University of Rochester provides a musical education through the esteemed Eastman School of Music. The conservatory excels in various programs, including composition and piano performance, and holds top rankings in those fields. Other highly respected genres at Eastman include orchestral performance, jazz, and opera.

Heading a bit further south, one can find the prestigious Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia. Founded in 1924 by Mary Louise Curtis Bok and guided by the renowned conductor Leopold Stokowski, Curtis offers an intimate learning environment with only around 165 students at any given time. It is highly sought-after due to its offering of free tuition to all students, making it an exceptional place to study.

Rounding out the list is the Cleveland Institute of Music, the only institution on the list that is not located on the East Coast. Moreover, it is closely affiliated with Case Western Reserve University, allowing undergraduate students to pursue a well-rounded liberal arts degree if they so choose.

In the end, prospective students should apply to as many conservatories as possible. The top 5 music conservatories in the US have highly selective admission rates. Applying to multiple schools increases musicians’ chances of acceptance. It is also important to consider factors such as location, average class size, and areas of study. Applicants should research which genres each conservatory excels in and apply to those that align with their interests.

Manuel Marino

Manuel Marino is a seasoned Senior Producer, Music Composer, and Artist with over a decade of experience. He specializes in branded entertainment across various mediums, including video games, films, and advertising campaigns. With 20+ years as a game music composer, Manuel has worked on numerous platforms, creating diverse orchestral soundtracks. HIRE ME