Top 10 U.S. Music Schools You Should Consider

For many high school students, the question of what to study in college isn’t about choosing between passion and practicality—it’s about finding a way to pursue both. If you're someone who has spent years immersed in music—whether through orchestra rehearsals, solo performances, jazz ensembles, or composing original works—the thought of leaving that behind in college can feel like losing a part of your identity. Yet at the same time, you might be equally drawn to subjects like mathematics, science, literature, or engineering.

So how do you make room for it all?

This dilemma is more common than it might seem. Today’s students often resist the idea of being confined to a single discipline. Instead, they’re looking for academic environments that encourage exploration and integration—places where they can nurture their artistic passions while pursuing studies in STEM, the humanities, or social sciences. Many students entering college want to explore music alongside another field of study, whether through a double major, a major-minor combination, or an interdisciplinary concentration tailored to their unique interests.

Fortunately, a growing number of U.S. colleges, universities, and conservatories are designed to support this dual pursuit. From liberal arts colleges with robust music departments to conservatories offering dual-degree pathways and research institutions that champion cross-disciplinary innovation, there are countless options for students who want to engage with music while developing a well-rounded academic foundation.

This guide highlights some of the best music schools in the United States for high school students who are passionate about music but also eager to explore broad academic pathways. Whether you're seeking conservatory-level performance training, advanced music composition opportunities, or a curriculum that intersects music with science, technology, or public policy, the schools listed below provide fertile ground for your growth.
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The Value of Studying Music Without Limiting Your Academic Options

When applying to college, many students—myself included—struggle with a common and often frustrating dilemma: choosing between what they truly love and what they believe is more “practical.” For those of us who’ve devoted years to music—spending evenings rehearsing, weekends performing, and summers composing—music isn’t just an extracurricular. It’s a core part of how we express ourselves and understand the world. Yet in the college application process, music can sometimes feel like the riskier path, especially when compared to traditional majors like business, biology, or engineering.

But the truth is, studying music in college doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing decision. Many of the most forward-thinking institutions now embrace the idea that students can—and should—pursue multiple interests. In fact, colleges increasingly value applicants who demonstrate both depth in a particular passion and the intellectual range to explore beyond it. Music and math. Music and psychology. Music and environmental science. These aren’t contradictory pairings—they’re powerful combinations that reflect the complexity of today’s most exciting fields.

Students today can explore music through many academic lenses:

• Music performance, for those committed to honing their instrument or voice at a high level
• Music technology, for those drawn to sound engineering, audio design, or digital media
• Music education, for aspiring teachers and community leaders
• Music composition, for students interested in film scoring, arranging, or orchestration
• Interdisciplinary music studies, such as music cognition, music therapy, or even music and AI

What’s more, structured mentorship programs like Nova Research and Nova Patent—which pair high school students with mentors from top universities such as Stanford, MIT, Harvard, Yale, and Princeton—make it possible to design original research projects that reflect this interdisciplinary spirit. Students might, for example, investigate the psychological effects of musical rhythms on attention, analyze sound waves using coding and data visualization tools, or explore the history of music as political resistance.

These kinds of cross-disciplinary experiences do more than satisfy intellectual curiosity. They also help students build strong portfolios for college applications, prepare for careers in emerging fields, and develop the kind of adaptive, creative thinking that today’s world demands.

In short, pursuing music in college doesn’t mean limiting yourself. On the contrary—it can be the foundation for a much broader and more innovative academic journey.
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Prestigious Music Institutions That Support Academic Exploration

If you're a student who dreams of pursuing music at the highest level but doesn’t want to give up exploring other academic interests, several elite music schools offer the ideal combination of rigorous musical training and broad intellectual engagement. These institutions attract some of the most gifted young musicians in the country—and the world—while also encouraging academic versatility, interdisciplinary thinking, and creative freedom. Below are two standout programs that exemplify this dual commitment.

Bard College Conservatory of Music

Location: Red Hook, New York

Bard stands out for its innovative dual-degree conservatory model, which allows students to earn both a Bachelor of Music (B.M.) and a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in a non-music academic field over the course of five years. This structure makes it a top choice for students who want to pursue conservatory-level musical training without sacrificing a liberal arts education. Bard believes that great musicians should also be deep thinkers—and its curriculum is intentionally designed to cultivate both.

Students at Bard Conservatory can combine their music studies with diverse majors like political science, mathematics, literature, philosophy, and environmental studies. This kind of academic flexibility empowers students to build an educational experience tailored to their specific passions—whether that's performing cello in a world-class ensemble while researching public policy, or composing chamber music alongside studying the ethics of artificial intelligence.

Bard’s faculty includes acclaimed performers, composers, and musicologists, offering students close mentorship and access to a vibrant artistic community. The school also emphasizes composition, chamber music, and historical performance, giving students a wide array of musical perspectives. A close friend of mine, for example, pursued both cello performance and political science, and often spoke of how the two disciplines informed and enriched each other.

Why it stands out: Bard is one of the few schools that requires all conservatory students to pursue a second degree in the liberal arts, making it uniquely supportive of interdisciplinary thinkers and creators.

Curtis Institute of Music

Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The Curtis Institute of Music is globally recognized as one of the most prestigious classical music conservatories, offering unmatched training for students committed to careers as professional performers, conductors, or composers. What truly distinguishes Curtis is its combination of elite instruction, small cohort size, and full-tuition scholarships for every admitted student—a model designed to remove financial barriers and admit only based on artistic merit.

With fewer than 200 students enrolled at any time, Curtis offers a deeply personalized experience. Students receive intensive one-on-one instruction from world-class faculty, many of whom are active performers with major orchestras and ensembles. The environment is focused, immersive, and highly competitive—but also profoundly nurturing for those who thrive in a conservatory setting.

Although Curtis is a music-only institution, meaning that students do not pursue majors outside the conservatory curriculum, its reputation and alumni network are unparalleled. Graduates include some of the most influential musicians in modern history, such as Leonard Bernstein, Lang Lang, and Hilary Hahn. Students have frequent opportunities to perform, collaborate on chamber music projects, and participate in masterclasses with global visiting artists.

Why it stands out: For students fully committed to a career in classical performance or composition, Curtis offers a cost-free, conservatory experience at the highest level. While not interdisciplinary in a traditional academic sense, its deep focus and prestige provide students with opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom.
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Eastman School of Music (University of Rochester)

Location: Rochester, New York

The Eastman School of Music, a division of the University of Rochester, is widely regarded as one of the top music schools in the United States. It offers students a rare opportunity to experience conservatory-level musical training while enjoying the resources of a major research university. This makes Eastman especially attractive to students who want to pursue serious music study alongside a broader academic path.

Through the Eastman/University of Rochester dual-degree program, students can earn a Bachelor of Music (B.M.) in performance, composition, or music education, while simultaneously pursuing a Bachelor of Arts or Science in a non-music discipline such as psychology, business, linguistics, or biology. This flexibility allows students to develop diverse intellectual interests while maintaining their artistic identity.

Eastman is also known for its outstanding faculty and strong programs in music theory, musicology, and conducting. The school fosters a deep sense of community among its students, and traditions like playing the Hopeman Memorial Carillon—a tower of bells overlooking campus—add to its rich musical atmosphere.

With frequent ensemble performances, masterclasses by visiting artists, and access to the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, students enjoy real-world performance experience throughout their time at Eastman. Many students also pursue academic minors or research through the wider University of Rochester system, where interdisciplinary study is strongly encouraged.

Why it stands out: Eastman offers a true hybrid model: top-tier music instruction within a research university, making it ideal for students interested in combining music with science, humanities, or business.

The Juilliard School

Location: New York City, New York

Arguably the most iconic name in performing arts education, The Juilliard School is renowned for its rigorous, conservatory-focused approach to music, dance, and drama. For students dedicated to reaching the highest levels of performance or composition, Juilliard represents the pinnacle of artistic training.

Juilliard's location in Lincoln Center—the cultural epicenter of New York City—provides unmatched access to concerts, museums, Broadway, and professional collaborations. The school's faculty includes Pulitzer Prize-winning composers, Grammy-winning performers, and leaders in the world of opera, symphony, and chamber music. Students receive individualized instruction, participate in elite ensembles, and are frequently invited to perform on some of the world’s most prestigious stages.

Although Juilliard is traditionally known for its conservatory environment, the school has increasingly embraced interdisciplinary collaboration. Students can apply to cross-register in courses at Columbia University or Barnard College, offering exposure to subjects such as philosophy, literature, languages, and economics. This opens the door for students to maintain academic breadth while immersed in a performance-intensive environment.

Juilliard also supports composition, jazz studies, historical performance, and electronic music production, making it a top choice for students interested in both traditional and contemporary musical paths.

Why it stands out: Juilliard is ideal for students seeking world-class performance training with increasing opportunities for interdisciplinary academic growth through nearby partnerships with Ivy League institutions. For musicians who want to be challenged artistically while staying intellectually engaged, Juilliard delivers a compelling—and globally recognized—experience.

Northwestern University – Bienen School of Music

Location: Evanston, Illinois

The Bienen School of Music at Northwestern University is an ideal choice for students seeking a rigorous music education within a top-tier research university. Bienen offers the best of both worlds: exceptional performance and composition training alongside the flexibility to explore a wide range of academic disciplines through Northwestern’s six undergraduate schools.

One of Bienen’s standout features is its encouragement of double majors and dual degrees. Students can combine a Bachelor of Music with degrees in engineering, economics, journalism, political science, cognitive science, or virtually any other subject offered at Northwestern. This openness to interdisciplinary study makes Bienen a popular choice for students with diverse interests who refuse to be boxed into a single field.

Bienen’s location in Evanston, just north of Chicago, places students close to one of the most vibrant and professionally active music scenes in the U.S. Students have access to an abundance of performance venues, internships, and networking opportunities, including partnerships with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Lyric Opera of Chicago, and local arts organizations.

The school offers degrees in performance, music education, composition, musicology, and jazz studies, with a strong emphasis on developing both technical excellence and intellectual depth. Faculty members are distinguished performers, scholars, and composers, and students benefit from small studio sizes and personalized mentorship.

Why it stands out: Bienen is one of the few elite music schools that truly supports and encourages students to pursue high-level music training alongside a second major, making it a top choice for students who want to integrate their musical passion with broader academic or pre-professional goals.

Oberlin Conservatory of Music

Location: Oberlin, Ohio

The Oberlin Conservatory of Music—part of Oberlin College, a nationally recognized liberal arts institution—is widely celebrated for its unique blend of conservatory-level performance and progressive academic culture. It’s the oldest continuously operating conservatory in the United States, with a long-standing reputation for nurturing artists who are also scholars, activists, and innovators.

Oberlin is especially appealing to students who want to pursue music in a socially engaged, intellectually curious environment. The conservatory sits alongside a highly respected liberal arts college, which allows students to explore dual interests through the five-year Double Degree Program. This path enables students to graduate with both a Bachelor of Music and a Bachelor of Arts in fields such as English, biology, neuroscience, history, or environmental studies.

With a strong emphasis on social justice, inclusion, and global awareness, Oberlin fosters a community where students are encouraged to think critically about the role of music in the world. Faculty include accomplished performers, composers, and scholars who support both traditional and contemporary musical interests.

Oberlin also boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including the Kohl Building (home to jazz studies, music theory, and technology), a renowned concert hall, and a recording studio. Many students go on to successful careers in performance, music education, arts administration, and beyond.

Why it stands out: Oberlin is a perfect fit for students seeking a deeply artistic, academically rigorous, and socially conscious music education. Its double-degree program and inclusive culture make it especially attractive to students who want to combine music with global issues, activism, or scientific research.
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Top Public Universities with Outstanding Music Programs

For students seeking a high-caliber music education with the affordability and resources of a public university, several flagship institutions offer exceptional programs that rival those of private conservatories. These schools not only provide outstanding training in performance, composition, and music theory, but also support academic exploration across disciplines—making them excellent options for students who want to combine music with science, business, technology, or humanities.

University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) – Herb Alpert School of Music

Location: Los Angeles, California

Although officially founded in 2016, UCLA’s Herb Alpert School of Music draws on decades of music education history at the university and has quickly become one of the most dynamic music schools in the country. As part of one of the top public universities in the world, the school provides students with a robust, interdisciplinary curriculum and unparalleled access to Los Angeles’s cultural, entertainment, and tech industries.

The Herb Alpert School offers majors in:

• Music Performance (classical, jazz, and global music)
• Ethnomusicology, one of the most distinguished programs in the country
• Musicology
• Music Education
• Music Industry and Music Composition, including opportunities in film scoring and production

What sets UCLA apart is the ability for students to easily combine music with other disciplines. Students can double major or minor in areas such as anthropology, neuroscience, data science, linguistics, or digital humanities—all while engaging with a diverse student body and globally recognized faculty.

The school’s location in Los Angeles, a global hub for music, film, and emerging media, means students have access to internships, professional collaborations, and real-world experience in scoring, music production, and entertainment law. Guest lectures, visiting artists, and partnerships with local organizations regularly enrich the student experience.

Why it stands out: UCLA is a forward-thinking, interdisciplinary environment ideal for students who want to bridge the gap between traditional music education and modern creative industries, all while earning a degree from one of the world’s most prestigious public institutions.

University of Michigan – School of Music, Theatre & Dance

Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan

The University of Michigan’s School of Music, Theatre & Dance (SMTD) is one of the most comprehensive and well-respected public music schools in the nation. Known for its breadth of offerings and artistic excellence, Michigan provides an ideal setting for students who want both top-tier musical instruction and the academic flexibility of a major research university.

Students can pursue majors in:

• Performance (instrumental, voice, jazz)
• Composition and Music Theory
• Music Education
• Conducting
• Musicology
• Musical Theatre, one of the best programs in the country

Beyond the conservatory-style training, Michigan offers over 275 degree programs across its university, allowing music students to engage in everything from biomedical engineering to political science to entrepreneurship. The university actively encourages cross-disciplinary innovation, and many music students participate in research, internships, and entrepreneurial ventures.

The campus is home to exceptional facilities, including state-of-the-art concert halls, recording studios, and rehearsal spaces. Students also benefit from the university’s rich cultural scene and proximity to Detroit, providing additional opportunities for performance and professional networking.

Notably, Michigan has a strong track record of graduates who go on to successful careers in arts leadership, education, research, and performance, making it a top destination for those who want to pursue music without narrowing their academic or career options.

Why it stands out: The University of Michigan combines the resources of a world-class university with the rigor of a conservatory, offering students the chance to customize their education and expand their career horizons—whether in music, science, or both.
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Emerging and Unique Music Programs to Consider

Not all exceptional music schools are conservatories or large universities. In fact, some of the most innovative music programs are found at smaller liberal arts institutions that integrate classical training with contemporary industry experience. These programs can be a strong fit for students interested in music production, entrepreneurship, interdisciplinary careers, or emerging fields like music and media technology.

DePauw University – School of Music

Location: Greencastle, Indiana

The School of Music at DePauw University offers a compelling alternative to traditional conservatory models. DePauw blends a classical foundation in music performance and theory with an emphasis on professional development, technology, and real-world application. One of its most distinctive features is its student-run record label—a rare offering at the undergraduate level that allows students to learn about the business, marketing, and production sides of the music industry.

In addition to standard tracks in performance, composition, and music education, DePauw encourages students to engage with music entrepreneurship, arts management, and cross-disciplinary innovation. Students interested in combining music with business, media studies, or digital production will find DePauw especially supportive of nontraditional career paths.

Small class sizes foster close mentorship from faculty, and the school’s tight-knit, collaborative environment makes it easy for students to take initiative—whether that means starting a student ensemble, producing an EP, or launching a research project that merges music with technology or social change.

Why it stands out: DePauw is ideal for students who want a forward-looking, interdisciplinary music education that blends performance with creative entrepreneurship and professional development. It’s especially suited to those pursuing music as a part of a broader liberal arts experience.
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How to Choose the Right Music School for You

Choosing the right college to study music isn’t just about rankings or reputation—it’s about fit. The best music school for you will depend on your goals, learning style, career aspirations, and willingness to explore beyond traditional pathways. Whether you’re aiming for a conservatory education, a flexible dual-degree program, or a hands-on music business experience, here are key questions to guide your decision:

1. Degree Flexibility

• Can you double major or minor in another subject?
• Are interdisciplinary programs or dual-degree options available?

If you’re passionate about combining music with neuroscience, computer science, or education, look for institutions that support academic cross-pollination. Schools like Northwestern and Bard offer robust models for students who refuse to limit themselves to a single field.

2. Faculty and Mentorship

• Are the professors active in the music industry or academic research?
• Will you receive personalized feedback and long-term mentorship?

Investigate the faculty’s credentials—but also their accessibility. The quality of your education depends largely on the guidance you’ll receive both in and outside the classroom.

3. Facilities and Performance Opportunities

• Does the school have recording studios, ensemble halls, and practice spaces?
• Are there frequent opportunities to perform, collaborate, or showcase original work?

For students in performance or composition, access to high-quality spaces and regular performance opportunities is essential. Schools in major cities or with close ties to orchestras and ensembles offer an edge here.

4. Location and Career Access

• Is the school near a major music hub or industry center?
• Will you have opportunities for internships, studio work, or professional networking?

Schools in cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, New York, or Boston offer a distinct advantage for students aiming to connect with real-world music professionals, whether in film scoring, classical performance, or digital production.

5. Financial Aid and Scholarships

• Is the program financially accessible to you?
• Are full or partial scholarships available based on merit or need?

Some prestigious schools like Curtis Institute of Music offer full-tuition scholarships to all students, while others have competitive aid programs. Always factor finances into your decision—but don’t rule out more expensive schools until you’ve reviewed aid options.

Finding a Balanced Path Forward

Liberal arts colleges like Oberlin and Bard are ideal for students who want to explore music in tandem with philosophy, environmental studies, or literature. Conservatories like Juilliard and Curtis provide focused, immersive training for students pursuing professional performance careers. Public universities like UCLA and Michigan combine musical excellence with interdisciplinary flexibility and large-scale resources.

If you’re interested in combining music with research, innovation, or emerging technologies, mentorship programs like those offered through Nova Scholar Education can help students design and pursue independent projects that bridge disciplines. Whether you're exploring music’s role in psychological health, machine learning, or acoustical engineering, structured mentorship from leading faculty at Stanford, MIT, Harvard, Yale, and Princeton can provide invaluable support—even if you’re not enrolled at a conservatory.

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Final Thoughts: Harmonizing Passion with Academic Possibility

There is no single path—or perfect formula—when it comes to choosing the best music school. What truly matters is finding a program that nurtures your artistic growth while empowering you to explore your academic interests and long-term goals. Whether your dream is to perform on international stages, compose film scores, study music cognition, or simply ensure music remains a personal and creative outlet throughout your college years, your college experience should reflect the full scope of who you are.

The schools and programs highlighted in this guide offer more than just musical excellence. They represent institutions that value intellectual curiosity, creativity, and interdisciplinary exploration. These are places where you can study performance and psychology, music theory and engineering, or composition and environmental policy—sometimes all within the same degree program.

So if you’ve ever felt pressured to choose between your passion for music and a “practical” major, know that you’re not alone—and that you don’t have to compromise. Today’s top colleges and conservatories are increasingly designed to support multi-dimensional students, offering flexible curricula, cross-department collaboration, and mentorship that encourages you to forge your own path.

Whether you're drawn to a liberal arts college like Oberlin, a conservatory like Juilliard, a research university like Northwestern, or a specialized mentorship experience through a program like Nova Scholar Education, the key is to seek out environments that allow you to grow as both an artist and a scholar.

In the end, the most meaningful education will be the one that reflects the full range of your passions—and gives you the tools to shape your future on your own terms. So as you navigate the exciting journey ahead, remember: you don’t have to choose between music and academics. With the right program, you can harmonize them—and thrive.