Maryland is home to some of the most reputable music schools on the East Coast, offering world-class programs in performance, production, composition, music education, and audio engineering. Whether you’re a beginner aiming to build foundational skills or an advanced musician preparing for a professional career, Maryland provides diverse music education opportunities.
This guide highlights the Top 15 Music Schools in Maryland, including tuition fees, program strengths, career outcomes, and notable features.
Top 15 Music Schools In Maryland And Fees
1. Peabody Institute of Johns Hopkins University
The Peabody Institute, located in Baltimore, is Maryland’s most prestigious music school and one of the top conservatories in the U.S. Known for its rigorous training, Peabody has produced countless world-class performers, composers, and educators.
Programs Offered:
- Bachelor of Music (BM)
- Master of Music (MM)
- Doctoral programs
- Music education, performance, composition, recording arts
Annual Tuition:
- Approximately $60,000 – $62,000 per year (undergraduate)
- Graduate tuition varies by program
Why It Stands Out:
Peabody combines elite conservatory training with access to Johns Hopkins’ research resources. Students benefit from masterclasses by globally recognized musicians and numerous ensemble opportunities.
2. University of Maryland School of Music (UMD – College Park)
The University of Maryland School of Music is one of the top public music programs in the country, offering high-quality education at a more affordable cost.
Programs Offered:
- BM in Performance, Composition, Theory
- MM & DMA advanced programs
- Music education and conducting
Annual Tuition:
- In-state: $11,500 – $13,000
- Out-of-state: $38,000 – $41,000
Why It Stands Out:
UMD is known for its stunning performance facilities, including the Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center, and its strong orchestral, opera, and choral programs.
3. Towson University Department of Music
Towson University offers a well-rounded and affordable music program ideal for students seeking strong academic structure and performance opportunities.
Programs Offered:
- Music performance
- Music education
- Jazz studies
- Composition and electronic music
Annual Tuition:
- In-state: $11,000 – $12,000
- Out-of-state: $28,500 – $29,500
Why It Stands Out:
Towson is known for producing successful music educators and performers, and its jazz program is one of the strongest in the state.
4. Morgan State University Department of Fine & Performing Arts
Morgan State, a historically Black university (HBCU), has a respected music program with strong choral and instrumental performance traditions.
Programs Offered:
- Bachelor’s in Music (BM)
- Vocal studies
- Instrumental performance
- Music education
Annual Tuition:
- In-state: $9,500 – $10,500
- Out-of-state: $19,500 – $20,500
Why It Stands Out:
The Morgan State Choir is internationally acclaimed, giving students the chance to perform at global events.
5. Salisbury University – Music, Theatre & Dance Department
Salisbury University offers a personalized music education experience with smaller class sizes and strong faculty support.
Programs Offered:
- BA in Music
- Music technology
- Instrumental & vocal training
Annual Tuition:
- In-state: $10,500 – $11,500
- Out-of-state: $20,000 – $22,000
Why It Stands Out:
Salisbury provides hands-on ensemble opportunities and a tight-knit music community ideal for individualized learning.
6. Frostburg State University – Department of Music
Frostburg State offers accredited programs and affordable tuition, making it one of the best value music programs in Maryland.
Programs Offered:
- BA in Music
- Music education
- Performance
Annual Tuition:
- In-state: $8,500 – $9,500
- Out-of-state: $23,000 – $24,000
Why It Stands Out:
The school is known for a balanced academic-performance curriculum and modern practice facilities.
7. Bowie State University Department of Fine and Performing Arts
Bowie State provides accessible and affordable music education with growing facilities and diverse concentrations.
Programs Offered:
- BA in Music
- Music technology
- Performance and education
Annual Tuition:
- In-state: $9,500 – $10,500
- Out-of-state: $20,000 – $22,000
Why It Stands Out:
Students get extensive studio experience, especially in music production and recording.
8. Goucher College – Music Program
Goucher College offers an interdisciplinary music program with strong liberal arts integration.
Programs Offered:
- BA in Music
- Concentrations in technology, composition, performance
Annual Tuition:
- Approximately $50,000 – $52,000 per year
Why It Stands Out:
Students often combine music with dance, theatre, or media studies, creating unique creative pathways.
9. Loyola University Maryland – Fine Arts: Music Program
Loyola focuses on musical theory, ensemble performance, and liberal arts skill development.
Programs Offered:
- BA in Music
- Choir and orchestra opportunities
- Music history & theory tracks
Annual Tuition:
- About $54,000 per year
Why It Stands Out:
Loyola offers strong ensemble programs and close mentorship from faculty.
10. St. Mary’s College of Maryland – Performing Arts Department
St. Mary’s is the state’s top public honors college and offers a robust music program with a focus on performance and composition.
Programs Offered:
- BA in Music
- Composition
- Vocal and instrumental studies
Annual Tuition:
- In-state: $15,000 – $16,000
- Out-of-state: $31,000 – $33,000
Why It Stands Out:
Known for personalized instruction and a scenic campus that enhances creative learning.
11. Washington College – Music Department
Washington College offers a strong liberal-arts-based music education with opportunities for composing, performing, and technology work.
Programs Offered:
- BA in Music
- Music business
- Music production
Annual Tuition:
- Around $50,000 – $53,000
Why It Stands Out:
Its growing music technology labs make it ideal for producers and composers.
12. Hood College – Music Program
Hood College in Frederick provides a well-rounded undergraduate music program with small class sizes.
Programs Offered:
- BA in Music
- Music technology
- Performance studies
Annual Tuition:
- Approximately $45,000 – $47,000
Why It Stands Out:
Hood College has a friendly, supportive environment and excellent faculty mentoring.
13. McDaniel College School of Music
McDaniel College delivers both classical and contemporary music training in a liberal arts environment.
Programs Offered:
- BA in Music
- Music production
- Performance
Annual Tuition:
- Around $48,000 – $50,000
Why It Stands Out:
The school is known for its excellent studio spaces and flexible curriculum.
14. Carroll Community College – Music Program
Carroll Community College offers strong foundation-level music training at a very affordable cost.
Programs Offered:
- AFA in Music
- Transfer pathway to UMD, Towson, and other universities
Annual Tuition:
- In-county: $5,000 – $6,000
- Out-of-county/state: $10,000 – $12,000
Why It Stands Out:
Perfect for budget-conscious students who want to complete general music studies before transferring.
15. Anne Arundel Community College – Performing Arts Department
AACC has an impressive music program with modern facilities and flexible pathways for transfer students.
Programs Offered:
- AFA in Music
- Studio recording
- Performing ensembles
Annual Tuition:
- In-county: $5,500 – $6,500
- Out-of-state: $12,000 – $14,000
Why It Stands Out:
A great entry point for aspiring musicians seeking performance experience and studio learning.
Cost of Music Schools in Maryland: Summary Table
| School | Tuition (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Peabody Institute | $60k–$62k |
| University of Maryland | $11k–$41k |
| Towson University | $11k–$29.5k |
| Morgan State University | $9.5k–$20.5k |
| Salisbury University | $10.5k–$22k |
| Frostburg State University | $8.5k–$24k |
| Bowie State University | $9.5k–$22k |
| Goucher College | $50k–$52k |
| Loyola University Maryland | $54k |
| St. Mary’s College | $15k–$33k |
| Washington College | $50k–$53k |
| Hood College | $45k–$47k |
| McDaniel College | $48k–$50k |
| Carroll Community College | $5k–$12k |
| AACC | $5.5k–$14k |
How to Choose the Best Music School in Maryland
Selecting the right music school depends on your goals, budget, and desired learning environment. Here are key factors:
1. Decide Whether You Want a Conservatory or a Liberal Arts Program
- Conservatories like Peabody focus on performance.
- Liberal arts schools offer broader academics plus music.
2. Consider Tuition and Financial Aid
Maryland offers budget-friendly public universities and community colleges. Private institutions are pricier but may offer scholarships.
3. Look at Faculty Expertise and Guest Artists
Top-tier instructors can accelerate your growth.
4. Research Performance Opportunities
Ensembles, opera programs, jazz bands, and recitals are essential for skill building.
5. Explore Music Technology Options
If you’re into production or sound engineering, ensure the school has modern studios.
Conclusion
Maryland is an excellent destination for aspiring musicians, offering everything from elite conservatory training to accessible community college programs. Whether you want to perform, teach, compose, or produce, the state’s top music schools provide world-class resources to help you reach your goals.