Choosing a college for Music major - any advice?

The idea of choosing a college is stressing me out, especially since I plan on majoring in Music. Does anyone have any experience or advice on the best colleges for Music majors? Pitfalls to watch out for? Experiences to share?

One of the main things to look out for when choosing a school for a music major is the faculty in the music department, especially if you're interested in a specific instrument or area of music. Many music majors will work closely with their instructors throughout their degree, so you should find a school with faculty who specialize in your area of interest.

Additionally, it might be helpful to look into the performances and ensembles that the department puts on each year. Are they diverse and numerous in nature? Having a range of opportunities to perform and participate in ensembles can greatly enhance your experience.

As for specific colleges, schools like Juilliard and Berklee are known for their outstanding music programs, but they are also incredibly selective. More accessible schools with great music programs include University of Southern California, Oberlin College, and Northwestern University.

Also consider whether you want a conservatory experience, where you will be mostly focused on your music studies, versus a liberal arts (or similar) approach, where music may be your primary area of study, but you'll also be engaged in a broader curriculum.

Lastly, since making a living as a musician can be challenging, it might be a good idea to consider a school that offers solid career services or alumni network in the music industry. Networking and internships are significantly useful in the music and entertainment business.

Each of these schools and many others offer unique music programs with varying opportunities and course tracks, so I would recommend researching some of their course catalogs and alumni paths to help determine which would be a good fit for you. Remember that the quality of the school's music program is crucial, but your personal fit with the overall school environment also matters significantly.