Finding Reliable Conservatory Rankings

Hey guys! I'm really passionate about music and I'm trying to figure out which conservatory is the best fit for me. I'm kinda curious, though: where can I find reliable conservatory rankings? It seems like there's so much conflicting info out there.

When it comes to conservatory rankings, it's important to approach them with a critical mindset. Rankings can often be subjective and skewed towards a certain criterion that if not examined closely might mislead students in making their choice.

A good starting point is general higher-education ranking sources. U.S. News and World Report, for instance, often ranks conservatories as part of their overall college rankings. Look for how they assess these schools, what criteria they use, and how they weight different factors.

However, for a more music-specific perspective, consider looking at dedicated music publications like Billboard or The Hollywood Reporter, which occasionally delve into the realm of conservatory rankings. These lists usually prioritize success in the music industry, alumni achievement, faculty reputation, etc.

Another perspective that could be valuable is that of existing and former students. Websites like College Confidential often host threads where students share their conservatory experiences. That said, remember these are anecdotal, so take them with a grain of salt.

Lastly, consider more personal factors, such as whether a program aligns with your specific field of interest, the faculty's reputation in your specific area, access to resources, performance opportunities, etc. No ranking can truly capture the full range of functionality and satisfaction from any given conservatory since they are often based on generalized criteria.

Remember, the "best" conservatory is a very personal choice and really depends on the fit between your needs and aspirations, and what the institution can offer.