Choosing the right location for your music education is a critical decision that can impact your future as a musician.
While many students rightly focus on a school’s reputation, community, and faculty, the surrounding environment plays an equally important role in shaping your educational experience and career opportunities.
College towns offer a unique blend of academic excellence and vibrant cultural scenes, making them ideal for music majors.
These towns are characterized by their strong economic ties to universities, high student-to-resident ratios, and a pervasive atmosphere of higher education.
In this article, we’ll explore 10 of the best college towns for music majors in the United States.
We’ve considered factors such as the diversity and quality of musical offerings, including festivals, theaters, orchestras, jazz clubs, popular music venues, and record labels.
These college towns provide unparalleled opportunities for networking, performance, and cultural immersion.
They offer experiences that can’t be replicated within the confines of a classroom, allowing students to engage with local music scenes, attend concerts, participate in festivals, and interact with professional musicians.
Let’s dive into the list of the best college towns for music majors!
Nashville, TN
Nashville, aptly known as “Music City,” is a hub for aspiring musicians across genres. Music Row, the heart of Nashville’s music industry, houses numerous record labels, publishing houses, and recording studios.
The Nashville Symphony, a Grammy-winning orchestra, contributes to the city’s diverse musical landscape. It performs classical and contemporary works at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center.
Nashville is home to a number of music schools, including Belmont University’s School of Music, which offers competitive programs in songwriting, production, and commercial music performance.
Vanderbilt’s Blair School of Music provides undergraduate-only programs in jazz and classical music, and is a selective institution at a top-tier prestigious academic institution ranked among the top 20 universities in the country.
Other notable institutions include Lipscomb University School of Music, further enriching Nashville’s educational offerings for music students.
Nashville boasts over 180 live music venues, including the legendary Bluebird Cafe, Listening Room Cafe, and Heirloom Rooftop. These venues provide ample performance opportunities for students and professionals alike.
Nashville attracts musicians from various genres, not just country, creating a diverse and vibrant music scene. This environment offers students exposure to multiple styles and networking opportunities with established artists.
Notable Music Schools in Nashville:
- Belmont University School of Music
- Vanderbilt Blair School of Music
- Lipscomb University School of Music
Madison, WI
Madison, Wisconsin stands out as a premier college town for music enthusiasts.
The classical music scene in Madison is particularly robust. The Madison Symphony Orchestra, while not full-time, consistently attracts world-class musicians and soloists.
The Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra also maintains a busy performance schedule throughout the year.
Opera aficionados will find multiple options in Madison.
The city is home to three regional opera companies, including the Madison Opera, Opera For the Young, and the Fresco Opera Theatre. These organizations cater to diverse audiences, from seasoned opera lovers to families introducing children to the art form.
Madison’s music festival scene is equally vibrant.
The Madison Jazz Festival and the Folk Ball are just two examples of the city’s commitment to diverse musical expressions. These events draw both local and international talent, enriching the cultural landscape.
Madison’s independent music scene thrives, as do several prominent music labels, including Crustacean Records.
At the heart of Madison’s musical ecosystem is the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Music.
This institution offers numerous performance opportunities for students and the community alike.
With multiple orchestras, bands, choirs, and jazz ensembles, the school significantly contributes to the city’s musical vibrancy.
UW-Madison’s School of Music holds a unique place in American music education history. In 1939, it pioneered the “artist-in-residence” program, a model that has since been adopted by music colleges nationwide.
In my assessment, Madison’s diverse and thriving music scene, coupled with its strong academic programs, makes it an excellent choice for students seeking a rich musical environment during their college years.
Notable Music Schools in Nashville:
- University of Wisconsin Mead Witter School of Music
Cambridge, MA
Cambridge caters to virtually every genre and style.
The Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO), one of the “Big Five” American orchestras, is a cornerstone of the region’s classical music tradition.
Many BSO members also serve as faculty at the New England Conservatory of Music (NEC) in next-door Boston, creating a symbiotic relationship that benefits students and the musical community alike.
Cambridge itself is home to the historic Longy School of Music, now part of Bard College.
Longy has a rich legacy, having trained renowned composers like Elliott Carter and harpsichordist Daniel Pinkham. The school continues to innovate with programs like The Orchestra Now, a tuition-free postgraduate training orchestra.
The area boasts other significant classical music institutions, including the Handel & Haydn Society, the second-oldest musical organization in the country, and the Boston Modern Orchestra Project, dedicated to contemporary classical compositions.
Beyond classical music, Cambridge and Boston offer a diverse and vibrant music scene.
Venues like The Middle East cater to electronic and independent rock, while Club Passim in Harvard Square is a legendary spot for acoustic music and poetry.
The Nameless Coffeehouse has been instrumental in launching the careers of folk artists like Tracy Chapman and Patty Larkin.
Boston’s Berklee College of Music has produced an impressive array of popular musicians across various genres.
Alumni include John Mayer, Dream Theater, Hiromi Uehara, Passion Pit, Jeff Berlin, and Steve Vai, underscoring the institution’s influence on contemporary music.
For music students, the concentration of five major music colleges in the area provides unparalleled networking opportunities with both established professionals and fellow aspiring musicians.
The greater Cambridge area, including Boston and Somerville, is dotted with numerous performance venues, from intimate jazz clubs to larger rock venues.
Notable Music Schools in Cambridge/Boston:
- New England Conservatory
- Boston Conservatory
- Berklee College of Music
- Boston University
- Longy School of Music
Austin, TX
Austin, Texas, stands out as a global epicenter for independent rock music. Among the city’s crown jewels is South By Southwest (SXSW), one of the largest music & media festivals in the world.
SXSW, a nine-day extravaganza, has been a cornerstone of American musical culture since its inception in 1987. With over 2,200 artists performing at 100 venues annually, it offers unparalleled networking opportunities for musicians.
Beyond SXSW, Austin’s historic Sixth Street district pulsates with live music throughout the week. This vibrant area hosts not only SXSW events but also the Pecan Street Festival, featuring arts, crafts, and five stages of live performances.
Another unique event is Eeyore’s Birthday Party, a 50-year tradition benefiting non-profit organizations. This one-day festival combines food, drink, and music in a celebratory atmosphere.
Austin’s musical landscape extends beyond rock and contemporary genres. The Austin Symphony Orchestra, the city’s oldest performing music group, maintains a regular concert season despite not being full-time.
Students from the University of Texas at Austin’s Butler School of Music often perform with both the Austin Symphony Orchestra and the Austin Civic Orchestra, a semi-professional non-profit ensemble.
In my experience, Austin’s diverse musical offerings create an ideal environment for student musicians. The city’s reputation as the “Live Music Capital of the World” is well-earned, making it a top choice for students passionate about music in all its forms.
Notable Music Schools in Austin:
- UT Austin Butler School of Music
Ithaca, NY
At the heart of Ithaca’s classical music scene is the Cayuga Chamber Orchestra.
Founded in the mid-1970s as the “Finger Lakes Orchestra,” it has since become the official orchestra of Ithaca.
The ensemble has performed hundreds of concerts, including oratorios, ballets, and orchestral works.
Their commitment to community engagement is evident through their educational outreach programs, which aim to promote classical music appreciation among local students.
Ithaca’s festival scene is particularly vibrant. The Finger Lakes GrassRoots Festival of Music and Dance, held annually just outside the city, is a highlight of the summer calendar.
This eclectic event draws tens of thousands of attendees and has featured notable artists such as Ani DiFranco, the Avett Brothers, and Los Lobos.
The festival’s diverse lineup, encompassing bluegrass, country, folk, and Cajun styles, reflects Ithaca’s broad musical palette.
The Ithaca College School of Music stands out as one of the top music schools housed within a liberal arts college in the country.
It’s particularly renowned for its Music Education program, which prepares students for careers in K-12 music education. The school presents hundreds of concerts annually, contributing significantly to the town’s cultural life.
While not primarily a music school, Cornell University also adds to Ithaca’s musical landscape.
Its graduate program boasts a fine contemporary music ensemble that champions works by modern composers, both from within the Cornell community and beyond.
I’ve found that Ithaca’s music scene is surprisingly robust for a town of its size. The combination of professional ensembles, world-class educational institutions, and popular festivals creates a rich environment for aspiring musicians.
Students here have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a diverse range of musical styles and experiences, all while enjoying the benefits of a close-knit community.
Notable Music Schools in Ithaca, NY:
- Ithaca College School of Music
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh’s musical offerings span classical, jazz, bluegrass, and contemporary genres.
The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, once led by the renowned Andre Previn, now flourishes under Manfred Honeck’s direction. It stands as one of the leading orchestras in the United States.
Pittsburgh Opera, the country’s eighth oldest professional opera company, presents five fully-staged productions annually. Their repertoire ranges Baroque to new contemporary works.
The city’s classical music scene also includes groundbreaking institutions like the Pittsburgh New Music Ensemble, which continues its tradition of innovation and championing contemporary classical works.
Pittsburgh’s theater scene is equally vibrant. Companies like Quantum Theatre, Bricolage Production Company, City Theatre, and Phase 3 Productions offer a wide array of performances, from experimental to traditional.
The city has also made its mark in popular music. Pittsburgh native Wiz Khalifa has achieved significant success, including a number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100.
For music majors, Pittsburgh offers a unique blend of historical significance and contemporary relevance.
Notable Music Schools in Pittsburgh:
- University of Pittsburgh School of Music
Athens, GA
Athens, Georgia, is renowned for its vibrant music scene, particularly in indie rock and alternative genres.
The city has birthed influential bands like R.E.M., The B-52’s, and Widespread Panic, cementing its place in music history.
During summers, Athens comes alive with music festivals.
AthFest, a free music and arts festival, combines live performances with a half-marathon to support music education programs.
The Athens Popfest celebrates indie rock and popular music styles, attracting both local and national acts.
The city’s classical music scene is equally robust, largely due to the University of Georgia’s Hugh Hodgson School of Music. The Athens Symphony Orchestra, a community ensemble, performs regular concerts throughout the year.
UGA’s music school hosts numerous ensembles, including the ARCO Chamber Orchestra, Men’s and Women’s Glee Clubs, two symphony orchestras, and various jazz, brass, and woodwind groups.
Athens is also home to the 40 Watt Club, one of the most famous music venues in the country. This iconic club has hosted early performances by many now-famous artists and continues to be a crucial part of Athens’ music scene.
The city’s music industry extends beyond performance. R.E.M.’s former guitarist Peter Buck opened Wuxtry Records store in 1976, which still exists today.
Athens’ compact size and concentrated musical energy make it an ideal place for networking and collaboration.
Whether you’re interested in indie rock, classical, or anything in between, Athens provides a supportive and dynamic community for music students.
Notable Music Schools in Athens:
- University of Georgia Hugh Hodgson School of Music
Denton, TX
This vibrant city’s music culture has garnered attention from major publications like The New York Times, The Guardian, and Paste Magazine, which previously named Denton among the best music scenes in the country.
Denton’s musical ecosystem is the University of North Texas (UNT), one of the most established and respected musical institutions globally.
UNT’s College of Music is particularly renowned for its jazz program, especially its big-band tradition. With approximately 1,600 music students, the school attracts some of the nation’s brightest talents in jazz improvisation, classical performance, and contemporary classical composition.
Denton’s music scene extends well beyond the university campus…
The city hosts the annual Denton Arts and Jazz Festival, a free three-day event featuring seven stages, over 2,000 artists, and 200+ arts and crafts booths. This festival, which attracts over 200,000 attendees annually, provides excellent performance opportunities for music students.
Another notable event is 35 Denton, a music festival that has hosted prominent acts like The Flaming Lips, Neon Indian, and The Mountain Goats.
For country music enthusiasts, the North Texas State Fair and Rodeo offers nine days of festivities and performances, drawing over 100,000 visitors each year.
UNT’s College of Music is particularly noteworthy for aspiring jazz musicians. Its flagship ensemble, the One O’Clock Lab Band, has received seven Grammy nominations.
When US News and World Report was still ranking collegiate jazz programs, UNT consistently placed in the top 10!
The sheer volume of musical activity at UNT is staggering. With over 1,000 concerts annually, students have ample opportunities to perform and attend diverse musical events.
The school’s resources are equally impressive, with a collection of recordings and volumes exceeding 1.2 million items.
While Denton may not have the glamour of larger cities, its unpretentious prairie suburb atmosphere belies a rich and diverse musical landscape.
In my assessment, Denton’s combination of a world-class music school, vibrant local scene, and numerous performance opportunities makes it an ideal destination for serious music students.
Notable Music Schools in Denton:
- University of North Texas School of Music
Ann Arbor, MI
Ann Arbor, Michigan, consistently ranks as one of the nation’s top college towns, and for good reason.
Its vibrant musical landscape offers a rich tapestry of genres and opportunities for aspiring musicians and music lovers alike.
The city has a storied musical history, having nurtured iconic rock acts like Iggy Pop, Bob Seger, and MC5.
This legacy continues today through legendary venues such as The Ark, known for folk and acoustic performances; the Blind Pig, a haven for blues and indie rock; and the Michigan Theatre, a historic “movie palace” that hosts both film screenings and live musical acts.
Classical music thrives in Ann Arbor as well. The Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra performs regularly at the Michigan Theatre and is celebrating nearly 100 years of existence!
For more intimate classical experiences, the Kerrytown Concert House provides a unique setting where many renowned University of Michigan music professors perform.
The city’s festival scene is particularly vibrant. The Top of the Park festival, held on the University of Michigan campus, showcases both international and local talent.
In the fall, EdgeFest celebrates avant-garde and modern jazz, while a separate bluegrass festival rounds out the autumn calendar.
Ann Arbor’s musical influence extends into electronic music. Ghostly International, now a prominent independent label, was born in a University of Michigan dorm room at the turn of the 21st century.
At the center of Ann Arbor’s musical ecosystem is the University of Michigan’s School of Music, Theatre & Dance.
The school boasts world-class facilities, including the majestic Hill Auditorium, which hosts symphony concerts and performances presented by the University Musical Society (UMS).
The UMS received recipient of the National Medal of the Arts award.
Alumni from the University of Michigan have gone on to achieve great success across various musical genres.
From Broadway performers to classical composers, and from pop icons like Madonna to TV stars like Darren Criss, the school has a track record of producing top-tier talent.
The university’s music school contributes over 600 performances annually to Ann Arbor’s cultural calendar.
A highlight is the annual Collage concert, a diverse showcase of student talent that has become a city favorite.
The city’s commitment to the arts, coupled with the university’s strong academic offerings, makes it a standout choice for music majors seeking a well-rounded and inspiring college experience.
Notable Music Schools in Ann Arbor:
- University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre, and Dance
Cincinnati, OH
Cincinnati boasts a rich musical heritage dating back to the 19th century.
The Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, founded in 1895, stands as one of the oldest and most respected orchestras in the United States.
The University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music (CCM) offers comprehensive programs in classical music, musical theatre, and jazz, as well as music production. It’s a major institution for aspiring musicians and performers.
The city’s music scene includes the Cincinnati Music Festival, focusing on R&B and jazz.
Local venues like Bogart’s, 20th Century Theater, and the Woodward Theater host both local and touring acts across various genres.
The city played a significant role in the development of blues, jazz, and rock. King Records, based in Cincinnati, was instrumental in shaping rock and roll and R&B in the 1940s and 1950s.
Founded in 1920, the Cincinnati Opera is the second-oldest opera company in the United States. It continues to present both classic and contemporary works.
Cincinnati’s diverse music scene provides opportunities for students and professionals across multiple genres, supported by a mix of historical institutions and contemporary venues.
Notable Music Schools in Cincinnati:
- University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music
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