Best colleges for music programs

Hi everyone! I'm a junior this year and I'm starting to look at colleges. Music is my passion, so I'm definitely looking for a college with a strong music program. Can anyone suggest some colleges with good music programs, in terms of both academics and opportunities to perform?

Certainly, there are numerous superb colleges in the United States that offer top-notch music programs.

Starting off with conservatories, the Juilliard School in New York City is widely known for its rigorous and elite music program. The Eastman School of Music at the University of Rochester is also highly respected.

Schools like the Berklee College of Music in Boston specializes in contemporary music, including jazz, rock, and pop, as well as music technology and music business.

Several universities also have highly prominent music programs. For instance, University of Southern California's Thornton School of Music is widely acclaimed for its comprehensive programs and industry connections. Indiana University's Jacobs School of Music offers close to two dozen degrees and has experienced faculty.

If you're interested in liberal arts colleges, consider Oberlin College's Conservatory of Music. It's one of the oldest music conservatories in the country, offering a range of music majors, from music composition to musicology.

Remember while you're considering these schools to check out their performance opportunities. For example, Juilliard often has student performances at the famous Lincoln Center. Schools like USC and Indiana University offer several performance groups for students, including orchestras, choirs, jazz ensembles, and more.

Each of these schools has varying levels of selectivity, so it would be wise to look at not only your academic qualifications but also how your music skills match the level of the students there. Be sure to research more about each school's music programs to find a good fit for your specific interests and goals in music. Good luck with your college search!