When it comes to studying music, New York City’s vibrant music scene provides endless opportunities, from abundant paid gigs to networking with accomplished musicians.
Very importantly, New York is home to several world-class college music programs.
In my years of experience in the music world, I’ve never encountered a musical culture quite like New York’s.
The city is a true melting pot of musical genres and styles.
Uptown, you’ll find the bastions of classical music – the New York Philharmonic, Metropolitan Opera, and other renowned institutions.
Downtown, the city comes alive with jazz clubs, rock venues, and spaces dedicated to every conceivable musical subgenre.
Whether your passion is electronic, country, hip-hop, or avant-garde contemporary, you’ll find your niche in New York.
What truly sets New York’s music schools apart is their faculty.
These aren’t just excellent teachers; they’re active professionals deeply embedded in the city’s music community.
Take Juilliard, for instance. If you’re studying an orchestral instrument there, chances are your professor is a member of the New York Philharmonic or a notable soloist in their own right.
Or consider NYU Tisch’s Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music.
The faculty there reads like a who’s who of contemporary popular music. I’ve had the opportunity to interact with several of these instructors, and their industry knowledge is as impressive as their teaching skills.
For aspiring musicians seeking not just education but immersion in a world-class music scene, New York offers an experience that’s hard to match anywhere else in the world.
Manhattan School of Music (MSM)
Manhattan School of Music stands out as a comprehensive institution for those aspiring to careers in classical music, jazz, or musical theatre performance.
MSM’s jazz faculty roster reads like a who’s who of jazz legends, including renowned saxophonist Jaleel Shaw, Grammy award winning drummer John Riley, and jazz trumpet player & educator Ingrid Jensen.
The opportunity to study with these living legends makes MSM’s jazz program highly competitive. Only a small percentage of applicants gain admission each year.
But MSM’s excellence isn’t limited to jazz. The classical faculty is impressive, with many of them holding appointments in the New York Phil, the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, and other prominent NYC ensembles.
What makes MSM unique is its status as an independent music conservatory. For some students, this focus on just music can be a perfect fit.
MSM’s facilities are top-notch, with numerous practice rooms, performance spaces, and recording studios.
The Neidorff-Karpati Hall, the school’s primary concert venue, is renowned for its excellent acoustics and hosts hundreds of performances a year.
Another distinctive feature of MSM is its musical theatre program. It’s rare for an independent conservatory to offer a dedicated musical theatre major, making MSM an attractive option for students who want conservatory-style training in this field.
Juilliard School
To the general public, there may be no music school in the country that carries more prestige.
The level of talent for admitted students is consistently exceptional, and my students who gain admission are among the most accomplished in the world for their age.
With an acceptance rate hovering around 5%, Juilliard selects only the most advanced and dedicated students.
Juilliard has produced some of the most successful pianists in the country, including legends like Chick Corea and Van Cliburn.
The faculty in said piano program includes renowned pedagogues like Yoheved “Veda” Kaplinsky, widely regarded as one of the top piano teachers nationwide. This level of excellence extends across all their classical programs – strings, brass, percussion, composition, woodwind, and voice.
One of the biggest advantages of attending Juilliard is the opportunity to study with these world-class instructors.
While Juilliard is primarily known for classical performance, it’s worth noting that they also have a small but elite jazz program. This program, though less widely known, maintains the same level of excellence as their classical offerings.
Juilliard’s facilities are as impressive as its reputation.
The school’s location at Lincoln Center places students at the heart of New York’s classical music scene. State-of-the-art practice rooms, performance spaces, and the recent addition of Tianjin Juilliard School in China all comprise the experience of this conservatory.
Mannes School of Music at The New School
Ten years ago, I interviewed Richard Kessler, the Dean of Mannes.
A decade later, Kessler is still at the helm, driving forward an innovative initiative called “Mannes In a New Key.” This program aims to cultivate musical citizens by expanding the curriculum beyond traditional conservatory offerings.
Another significant change at Mannes has been the influx of new faculty members who are active, successful musicians outside of academia. A standout example is Valerie Coleman, one of the nation’s most performed composers.
Historically, Mannes built its reputation as “the theory school,” known for its unusually heavy emphasis on advanced theoretical concepts. While these courses are still available, the curriculum has evolved to be more holistic and industry-aligned.
The facilities at Mannes have also seen significant upgrades. The school’s move to Greenwich Village in 2015 provided students with state-of-the-art practice rooms, recording studios, and performance spaces.
In more recent years, Mannes has expanded its curriculum with “courses in music technology, improvisation ensemble, teaching artistry, arts journalism, film music composition, and creative entrepreneurship.”
It’s worth noting that while Mannes is part of The New School, it operates quite differently from The New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music. Both are excellent in their respective fields.
Pace University
Pace University might not be the first name that comes to mind when thinking about top music schools in New York, but it’s a hidden gem that deserves consideration for musical theatre students.
At the heart of Pace’s musical offerings is its highly selective Musical Theatre program.
Pace is ranked among the top 10 schools for placement into Broadway productions, as of last season. It’s impressive to see Pace alumni currently gracing the stages of hit musicals like “Hamilton,” “Wicked,” and “Hadestown,” among others.
What sets Pace apart is its faculty.
These aren’t just academics; they’re seasoned professionals with extensive backgrounds in Broadway and the broader entertainment industry. This real-world experience translates into invaluable insights for students aspiring to break into the competitive world of musical theatre.
While not strictly a music program, Pace’s Arts & Entertainment Management program within their business school is worth highlighting.
Recent graduates have secured internships and jobs with major players in the music industry, including Warner Music Group and Sony Music.
It’s important to note that while Pace’s performing arts program is strong overall, it does lean more towards acting and drama.
Aaron Copland School of Music at Queens College
The Aaron Copland School of Music at Queens College is among the best-value music schools in the country. It offers an exceptional balance of high-quality education and affordability that’s hard to match elsewhere.
The tuition fees are remarkably reasonable – less than $8,000 a year for in-state students, and roughly double that for out-of-state students. For the caliber of education provided, these rates make the school an amazing value.
What truly impresses me about Aaron Copland School of Music is its faculty roster.
It’s studded with highly accomplished musicians who bring a wealth of professional experience to their teaching.
Some of the teachers include Marcy Rosen, the celebrated cellist of the Mendelssohn Quartet; David Jolley, a renowned horn player who also teaches at prestigious institutions like Mannes and Manhattan School of Music; and Mark Dover, an esteemed clarinetist who’s a member of the acclaimed Imani Winds.
The school’s rich history adds depth to its programs.
Giants in music academia, such as influential theorist Carl Schacter and Pulitzer-winning composer George Perle, have left an indelible mark on the institution.
Their legacy continues to shape the school’s approach, particularly in theory and composition.
Another significant advantage is the school’s association with Queens College. This connection allows music students to pursue their passion either exclusively or in combination with other academic majors, providing a well-rounded education.
New York University – Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development
Steinhardt offers programs in an impressive array of musical disciplines:
- Contemporary music studies, including music production, music business, songwriting, and even a contemporary performance major for voice students.
- Classical performance
- Jazz performance
- Composition studies – both traditional and film scoring
- And of course, musical theatre
The Steinhardt faculty includes instructors from other prestigious New York institutions, such as the Manhattan School of Music and Juilliard.
Notable faculty members include renowned classical pianist Jeffrey Swann, jazz saxophonist Chris Potter, and songwriter Phil Galdston, whose songs & productions have appeared on albums by Beyonce’, Celine Dion, and Sheryl Crow.
One of Steinhardt’s greatest strengths is its affiliation with NYU at large. Students can dual major in music and another academic subject, either within Steinhardt or in the College of Arts and Sciences.
This flexibility is invaluable for students seeking a well-rounded education that combines high-level musical training with strong academic foundations.
The school’s location in the heart of New York City provides unparalleled access to the music industry. Students regularly intern at major record labels, publishing companies, and recording studios. The proximity to Broadway is particularly beneficial for musical theatre students.
Steinhardt also boasts impressive facilities. The James L. Dolan Recording Studio is a professional-grade facility where students work alongside industry professionals. The Frederick Loewe Theatre provides a top-notch performance space for student productions.
NYU Tisch School of the Arts
It’s worth noting that NYU appears twice on this list for good reason.
While both the Steinhardt School and Tisch are part of NYU, they offer such distinct programs that they merit separate recognition.
It’s also important to understand that when applying to NYU, you can only choose one of these schools, not both simultaneously.
NYU Tisch is renowned for its Musical Theatre program, which is arguably the most prestigious in the nation.
While both Tisch and Steinhardt offer musical theatre programs, there’s a key difference. Tisch offers a BFA (Bachelor of Fine Arts), while Steinhardt provides a BMus (Bachelor of Music).
The distinction lies in the credit-hour focus: the BMus emphasizes music more heavily, while the BFA leans more towards drama. However, both programs offer courses in both disciplines, ensuring a well-rounded MT education.
Another standout program at NYU Tisch is the Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music.
What sets the Clive Davis Institute apart is its laser focus on musical entrepreneurship. The program is divided into several key areas: music production, performance, songwriting, and music journalism, among other areas.
The core philosophy at Clive Davis is to equip students with real-world business skills that will serve them well post-graduation.
This approach reflects the evolving nature of the music industry, where versatility and business acumen are increasingly valuable.
It’s worth noting that the Clive Davis program is highly selective and caters to a specific type of music student.
From my experience advising prospective students, I often recommend attending their summer program before applying. This can give you a taste of the program’s style and help you determine if it’s the right fit for your goals.
The facilities at Tisch are state-of-the-art. The Clive Davis Institute, for instance, houses professional-grade recording studios and performance spaces.
Faculty at Tisch are not just educators but active industry professionals. In the musical theatre program, you’ll find Broadway directors, choreographers, and performers. The Clive Davis Institute boasts Grammy-winning producers, successful songwriters, and music industry executives among its faculty.
The New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music
What sets The New School apart from other jazz programs is its focus on blending traditional jazz studies with contemporary musical genres.
While jazz remains at the core of the curriculum, the program isn’t confined to “mainstream” or “big band” styles that often dominate jazz education. Instead, it embraces a more eclectic, forward-thinking approach.
A prime example of this cutting-edge philosophy is the school’s MM Performer-Composer degree. This program aims to blur the lines between composition, improvisation, and performance.
It draws influences not just from jazz, but also from electronic music, minimalism, rock, and experimental genres. This interdisciplinary approach reflects the evolving nature of jazz in the 21st century.
The faculty at The New School embodies this innovative spirit.
You’ll find not only jazz luminaries but also pioneers in avant-garde and experimental music.
Names like Reggie Workman, an avant-garde bass player who worked with John Coltrane, and Jane Ira Bloom, a soprano saxophonist known for her use of live electronics in jazz, exemplify the school’s commitment to pushing boundaries in jazz.
The school’s location in Greenwich Village places students at the heart of New York’s vibrant jazz scene. Many faculty members are active performers in the city’s clubs, providing students with invaluable connections and real-world performance opportunities.
Another unique aspect of The New School is its emphasis on student-led ensembles. Rather than always placing students in predefined groups, the school encourages students to form their own bands and develop their artistic voices. This approach fosters creativity and entrepreneurship, crucial skills in today’s music industry.
The New School also offers a robust visiting artist program. Throughout the year, students have the opportunity to attend masterclasses and workshops with some of the most innovative voices in contemporary jazz and related genres.
American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA)
AMDA has two undergraduate degree programs of note for musicians; a musical theatre BFA as well as a BFA in vocal performance for commercial music.
Its longstanding reputation as a musical theatre school is understood, being the 3rd most represented school on Broadway.
One of AMDA’s unique selling points is its bi-coastal opportunity. Students can study in both New York City and Los Angeles, the two epicenters of the modern entertainment industry.
The success of AMDA’s approach is evident in its alumni. Notable graduates include Marissa Jaret Winokur, a Tony Award-winning actress known for her role in “Hairspray,” and Paul Sorvino, a veteran actor of stage and screen.
AMDA has also produced talent that has found success beyond musical theatre, including international pop stars Jason Derulo and Janelle Monáe.
AMDA’s MT curriculum is intensively focused on performance. Students spend a significant portion of their time in studio classes, working on acting techniques, dance, and vocal performance. The program also includes courses on the business side of the entertainment industry, preparing students for the realities of a career in musical theatre.
The BFA in commercial vocal performance has a curriculum deeply rooted in contemporary & popular music styles. Some unique courses offered here include “Music for Social Media” “Advanced Commercial Music: Song Production” and “Art As Activism.”
Students in this program engage in music of many styles, including gospel, hip-hop, pop, Latin, R&B, soul, and rock.
Brooklyn College Conservatory of Music
Brooklyn College Conservatory is something of a hidden gem in NYC’s musical world.
One of the standout offerings at Brooklyn College Conservatory is their Media Scoring program. This MFA degree in film and television scoring is a rarity in music education, setting the school apart from many of its peers. The program provides students with access to faculty who have real-world experience in major motion pictures and television productions.
For instance, Jonathan Zalben, a recent addition to the faculty, has an impressive portfolio that includes scoring for shows on HBO, Lionsgate, Discovery Channel, and Sony Pictures Classics.
Another faculty member, Ron Bochar, brings extensive experience in sound editing, having worked with renowned directors like Jonathan Demme and Frank Oz.
But the Conservatory’s strengths extend far beyond film scoring. They offer comprehensive programs in performance, music technology, and jazz studies.
The recently renovated Leonard & Claire Tow Center for the Performing Arts houses state-of-the-art rehearsal spaces, a recording studio, and a beautiful concert hall. These resources ensure that students have access to professional-grade equipment and spaces throughout their studies.
The Conservatory also offers several ensembles that students can participate in, including orchestras, jazz bands, and contemporary music groups.
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