Auckland, New Zealand’s largest and most culturally diverse city, has built a strong reputation for producing talented musicians, world-class instrumentalists, sound engineers, and performers. Whether you’re an aspiring classical musician, a future producer, or someone aiming to build a full-time music career, Auckland offers a wide range of schools with professional instructors, advanced facilities, and flexible fees.
This comprehensive guide explores the Top 10 Music Schools in Auckland, what each school offers, tuition fees, program highlights, and why they stand out among music academies in New Zealand.
Top 10 Music Schools In Auckland And Fees
1. University of Auckland – School of Music
The University of Auckland School of Music is one of the most prestigious music institutions not only in Auckland, but across New Zealand. Offering internationally recognised degrees, world-class tutors, and strong industry exposure, it is an ideal destination for students seeking an academic-driven musical education.
The school has specialised programs in classical performance, jazz performance, composition, popular music, musicology, and ethnomusicology. Students benefit from masterclasses with international musicians, access to state-of-the-art rehearsal spaces, and interdisciplinary performance opportunities.
Programs Offered:
– Bachelor of Music (BMus)
– Bachelor of Music (Popular Music)
– Master of Music (MMus)
– Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA)
– Short courses and workshops
Fees:
– Undergraduate Tuition: $7,200 – $8,500 per year for domestic students
– International Tuition: $35,000+ per year
– Additional course-related costs apply.
The school is ideal for students who want a strong academic foundation and performance-driven training.
2. Auckland University of Technology (AUT) – Music & Audio Engineering
AUT’s School of Music and Creative Media is highly recognised for modern music education focusing on music technology, audio production, sound design, and contemporary performance. It’s popular among students aiming to build a career in the evolving world of digital sound, production, and commercial music.
Students have access to industry-standard recording studios, digital labs, mixing suites, and professional sound equipment used widely in the entertainment industry.
Programs Offered:
– Bachelor of Music (Contemporary Performance)
– Bachelor of Creative Technologies
– Audio Engineering Diplomas
– Short courses
Fees:
– Domestic Tuition: $7,000 – $8,200 per year
– International Tuition: $32,000 – $34,000 per year
AUT offers an industry-centric education suitable for students aiming to become sound engineers, producers, and contemporary performers.
3. MAINZ – Music and Audio Institute of New Zealand (Te Pukenga)
Recognised across New Zealand for practical and industry-focused music programs, MAINZ provides highly specialised training in DJing, music production, sound engineering, performance, and music business.
MAINZ is known for its hands-on approach, meaning students spend most of their time in studios, rehearsal rooms, and labs.
Programs Offered:
– Diploma in Music Production
– Diploma in Audio Engineering
– Bachelor of Musical Arts
– Certificate in DJ and Electronic Music Production
Fees:
– Domestic Tuition: $7,000 – $8,000 per year
– International Tuition: $22,000 – $27,000 per year
MAINZ is perfect for students seeking fast-track music careers with strong practical experience.
4. SAE Creative Media Institute – Auckland
Globally known for sound engineering excellence, SAE Auckland is one of the best music and audio institutions in New Zealand for those interested in the technical, creative, and engineering sides of music.
SAE specialises in audio engineering, electronic music production, film sound, live sound, and digital music creation. The school is part of a worldwide network, giving students international exposure.
Programs Offered:
– Diploma in Audio Engineering
– Bachelor of Audio Production
– Electronic Music Production Courses
Fees:
– Domestic Tuition: $7,500 – $8,000 per year
– International Tuition: $22,000 – $27,500 per year
Students who want a globally recognised qualification in audio or electronic music find SAE a top choice.
5. Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra – APO Connecting Education Program
While not a traditional music school, the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra (APO) offers some of the most respected performance-based music programs in the city. Their APO Connecting program offers mentorships, masterclasses, workshops, youth orchestra placements, and one-on-one training with professional orchestral musicians.
This program is extremely valuable for young classical musicians seeking orchestral training.
Programs Offered:
– APO Young Achievers
– APO Aspiring Musicians Programme
– Schools Partnership Workshops
– Professional Mentoring Programs
Fees:
– Workshops start from $150 – $500
– Private Masterclasses: $80 – $200 per session
– APO Youth Orchestral Programs vary from $400 – $1,200 per year
This is ideal for serious students pursuing classical performance.
6. Lewis Eady Music School – Auckland
Lewis Eady is one of the oldest and most respected private music schools in Auckland, offering lessons for children, teens, and adults. Known for high-quality teaching and personalised programs, the school offers training in piano, violin, guitar, drums, ukulele, saxophone, voice, and more.
They also offer music theory, exam preparation, and ensemble programs.
Programs Offered:
– Individual Instrument Lessons
– Vocal Training
– ABRSM and Trinity Exam Prep
– Ensembles and Workshops
Fees:
– Private Lessons: $35 – $70 per 30–45 minute session
– Group Classes: $20 – $40 per session
This school is ideal for beginners to intermediate learners seeking flexible schedules.
7. Auckland Academy of Music (AAM)
The Auckland Academy of Music is well known for its structured, exam-aligned music education. AAM offers classical and contemporary music lessons for all age groups, with a strong emphasis on ABRSM and Trinity College certification.
Students can learn instruments such as violin, piano, cello, guitar, flute, clarinet, drums, and voice.
Programs Offered:
– Individual Instrument Training
– Music Theory Lessons
– Graded Exam Preparation
– Recitals and Performance Opportunities
Fees:
– Private Lessons: $40 – $75 per session depending on level and teacher
– Group Lessons: $20 – $35 per session
Great for students looking for structured music progressions.
8. NZ Modern School of Music – Auckland Branch
The New Zealand Modern School of Music focuses on modern, contemporary music education and is well-known for its long-standing teaching method that emphasises creativity and strong foundational skills.
The school offers instruction in keyboard, guitar, piano, drums, ukulele, and singing for all ages.
Programs Offered:
– Private Lessons
– Modern Music Theory
– Performance Coaching
– Music Exams and Competitions
Fees:
– Private Lessons: $30 – $50 per session
– Registration fees may apply.
It is especially suitable for young learners and adults seeking a relaxed but efficient music program.
9. Rudd School of Rock – Auckland
The Rudd School of Rock stands out for its fun, energetic, and rock-band-focused training style. Students learn through performing contemporary genres such as rock, pop, blues, indie, and jazz fusion.
Their programs are structured for both beginners and advanced performers.
Programs Offered:
– Private Instrument Lessons (guitar, drums, bass, piano)
– Vocal Coaching
– Band Programs
– Performance Workshops
Fees:
– Private Lessons: $40 – $60 per session
– Band Programs: $25 – $40 per group session
This school is ideal for students who want to perform live or join musical bands.
10. Music Education Centre – Auckland
The Music Education Centre (MEC) is one of the largest private music schools in Auckland, with multiple branches around the city. They offer lessons for children and adults with flexible timetables and highly experienced teachers.
Students can choose from a variety of instruments including piano, violin, guitar, drums, flute, saxophone, and voice.
Programs Offered:
– Private Music Lessons
– Group Music Lessons
– Theory Classes
– Concerts and Recitals
Fees:
– Private Lessons: $38 – $70 per session
– Group Classes: $15 – $30 per session
MEC is perfect for families seeking accessible, high-quality music training.
Conclusion
Auckland is home to a rich blend of professional music academies, universities, private music centres, and orchestral training programs. Whether your goal is to become a classical performer, a music producer, a sound engineer, or simply improve your musical abilities, there is a music school tailored to your needs.
Key things to consider when choosing a music school:
✔ Your musical goals (performance, production, sound engineering, teaching, etc.)
✔ Fees and scholarship opportunities
✔ Location and schedule flexibility
✔ Style of music (classical, modern, rock, jazz, electronic)
✔ Practical vs theoretical learning balance
No matter your skill level, Auckland offers some of the best music education options in New Zealand.