Denver has steadily grown into one of the most exciting music education hubs in the Mountain West region. From classical conservatories to modern production academies, students can find programs designed for beginners, advanced learners, and aspiring professionals. Whether you’re looking for vocal coaching, music production, instrument mastery, or full-degree programs, Denver offers remarkable options with flexible fees to suit different budgets.
Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the Top 10 Music Schools in Denver, including detailed fee information, what each school is known for, and why it might be the perfect fit for your musical journey.
Top 10 Music Schools In Denver And Fees
1. University of Denver – Lamont School of Music
The Lamont School of Music at the University of Denver is widely regarded as the most prestigious music institution in Denver. Known for its conservatory-style learning environment, world-class faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and competitive programs, Lamont attracts students from across the U.S. and internationally.
Programs Offered:
- Bachelor of Music (BM)
- Master of Music (MM)
- Performance Diplomas
- Jazz Studies
- Composition
- Music Education
- Conducting
- Voice, Strings, Brass, Piano, Woodwinds
The school is particularly strong in classical performance, jazz, and music education. Students get hands-on experience performing in ensembles, orchestras, and recitals, while also receiving individualized instruction.
Fees:
- Undergraduate Tuition: $57,000 per year
- Graduate Tuition: $22,000–$24,000 per year
- Additional Fees: $1,000–$2,000 annually
Why Choose Lamont:
Prestigious, competitive, ideal for serious musicians aiming for professional careers.
2. Metropolitan State University of Denver – Music Department
Metropolitan State University of Denver (MSU Denver) offers one of the most affordable and diverse music programs in Colorado. It is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM), ensuring high-quality education.
Programs Offered:
- BA in Music
- BM in Performance
- BM in Jazz and American Improvised Music
- Music Education
- Sound Recording & Technology
- Minors in Music and Recording Technology
The school is known for its emphasis on contemporary music and traditional training. Its recording labs attract students interested in sound engineering and production.
Fees:
- In-State Tuition: $11,000–$13,000 per year
- Out-of-State Tuition: $30,000+
- Studio Fees: $500–$1,200 yearly
Why Choose MSU Denver:
Affordable, modern programs, excellent for jazz, recording tech, and contemporary musicians.
3. University of Colorado Denver – MEIS (Music & Entertainment Industry Studies)
The MEIS program at CU Denver is one of the top modern music programs in the USA. It prepares students for careers in music business, audio engineering, production, and performance.
Programs Offered:
- Recording Arts
- Singer/Songwriter
- Music Business
- Performance
- Music Production
- Interdisciplinary Studies
CU Denver students work with advanced studios, recording technologies, and industry-standard equipment. Alumni include Grammy nominees and charting artists.
Fees:
- In-State Tuition: $12,000–$14,000 per year
- Out-of-State Tuition: $33,000–$35,000
- Lab Fees: $1,000–$1,800 yearly
Why Choose MEIS:
Perfect for students pursuing modern careers like engineering, production, and songwriting.
4. Colorado State University – Denver Extension (CSU Denver Music Programs)
CSU’s Denver extension offers flexible music training for adult learners, hobbyists, and musicians preparing for professional programs.
Programs Offered:
- Applied Music Lessons
- Music Education Workshops
- Performance Ensembles
- Certificate Courses (Theory, Composition, Recording)
Students enjoy flexible scheduling, making it ideal for working adults and part-time learners.
Fees:
- Private Lessons: $40–$80 per hour
- Certificate Programs: $1,200–$3,500
Why Choose CSU Denver:
Flexible and perfect for musicians wanting structured learning without full-degree enrollment.
5. Denver School of the Arts – Music Conservatory
Denver School of the Arts (DSA), though a magnet school, offers rigorous conservatory-level training and community programs for young musicians.
Programs Offered:
- Classical Instrument Training
- Jazz Studies
- Vocal Music
- Orchestral Studies
- Music Theory
- Chamber Ensembles
DSA is known for competitive admissions, excellent instructors, and professional-level development.
Fees:
- Public Tuition: Free (Denver residents)
- Activity/Instrument Fees: $500–$1,500 yearly
- Community Classes: $300–$900 per semester
Why Choose DSA:
Ideal for young musicians seeking early conservatory-style training.
6. Swallow Hill Music School
Swallow Hill Music is one of Denver’s most community-friendly music schools, specializing in acoustic, folk, and world music styles.
Programs Offered:
- Guitar, Piano, Voice
- Songwriting
- Folk/Roots Instruments (banjo, mandolin, ukulele, fiddle)
- Adult & Youth Ensembles
- Band Camps
- Recording Workshops
Known for its relaxed, inclusive environment, it is perfect for beginners and hobbyists.
Fees:
- Group Classes: $150–$220 per session
- Private Lessons: $45–$70 per hour
- Kids Camps: $350–$550 weekly
Why Choose Swallow Hill:
Great for casual learners and musicians interested in folk and acoustic sounds.
7. Neighborhood Music School (Cherry Creek, Denver)
Neighborhood Music School is a respected private academy offering high-quality training for all ages.
Programs Offered:
- Piano, Voice, Guitar, Drums
- Violin, Viola, Cello
- Theory & Ear Training
- Young Artist Programs
- Performance Clubs
Known for its disciplined approach, it is especially popular among families.
Fees:
- Private Lessons: $150–$250 monthly
- Ensembles: $30–$60 per session
- Registration: $50 yearly
Why Choose Neighborhood Music School:
Structured, professional, ideal for kids preparing for competitions and exams.
8. School of Rock Denver
School of Rock Denver is a vibrant hub for modern and performance-based music education.
Programs Offered:
- Rock Band Programs
- Guitar, Bass, Drums
- Voice & Keyboard
- Songwriting
- Music Production
- Summer Camps
Students learn through real band rehearsals and live stage performances.
Fees:
- Monthly Tuition: $150–$350
- Camps: $300–$600
- Band Programs: $250–$350 monthly
Why Choose School of Rock:
Best for kids and teens interested in rock, pop, indie, and metal.
9. Patrick’s Music School (Denver Metro)
Patrick’s Music offers decades of trusted music education with a friendly, welcoming environment.
Programs Offered:
- Piano, Guitar, Drums
- Brass & Woodwinds
- Strings
- Theory & Composition
- Early Childhood Music
The school is great for children, teens, and adults at beginner to intermediate levels.
Fees:
- Private Lessons: $35–$60 per session
- Monthly Packages: $150–$220
- Rentals: $20–$40 monthly
Why Choose Patrick’s:
Affordable and flexible, ideal for beginner musicians.
10. Denver Music Institute
Denver Music Institute (DMI) focuses on performance, production, and artist development for modern musicians.
Programs Offered:
- Music Production
- Guitar, Bass, Drums
- Voice
- Live Performance Coaching
- Studio Recording Courses
- Artist Development Tracks
A great option for aspiring producers and performers looking for hands-on training.
Fees:
- Private Lessons: $40–$75 hourly
- Production Courses: $1,500–$4,500
- Monthly Plans: $200–$350
Why Choose DMI:
Industry-focused and perfect for artists who want to perform, record, and produce professionally.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a beginner, a parent searching for the right school for your child, or an aspiring professional looking to build a long-term career in music, Denver offers a wealth of top-tier options. From conservatories like Lamont to modern industry-focused programs at CU Denver, the city provides high-quality musical education for every aspiration and budget.