Massachusetts is one of the strongest states in America when it comes to music education. From world-renowned conservatories in Boston to innovative university music departments across the state, Massachusetts offers some of the finest training for musicians, composers, producers, vocalists, and performers. This guide explores the top 15 music schools in Massachusetts, their programs, strengths, fees, and what makes each institution stand out.
Whether you’re pursuing classical performance, jazz, music technology, music therapy, or contemporary production, this list will help you choose the right school.
Top 15 Music Schools In Massachusetts And Fees
1. Berklee College of Music – Boston
Berklee College of Music is arguably the most famous contemporary music school in the world. Known for producing Grammy-winning artists, top producers, and renowned composers, Berklee emphasizes real-world performance, music business, technology, and innovation.
Programs:
- Music Production & Engineering
- Contemporary Performance
- Songwriting
- Film Scoring
- Electronic Production
- Music Business
Why It’s Top-Rated:
Cutting-edge facilities, Grammy-winning faculty, and unmatched industry connections.
Estimated Fees:
$48,000 – $52,000 per year (tuition only)
2. New England Conservatory (NEC) – Boston
The New England Conservatory is among the oldest and most prestigious classical conservatories in the U.S. NEC is perfect for students pursuing orchestra, chamber music, vocal performance, and jazz.
Programs:
- Classical Performance
- Opera
- Jazz Studies
- Composition
- Music Theory
Why It’s Elite:
Intensive conservatory training, world-class ensembles, and strong pathways into major orchestras.
Estimated Fees:
$49,000 – $53,000 per year
3. Boston Conservatory at Berklee – Boston
Now part of Berklee, Boston Conservatory focuses on performance art, including music, theater, and dance. It is renowned for vocal performance, musical theater, and classical instrumental training.
Programs:
- Vocal Performance
- Musical Theatre
- Opera
- Orchestral Instruments
Unique Strength:
Especially strong in vocal artistry and stage performance.
Estimated Fees:
$47,000 – $50,000 per year
4. University of Massachusetts Amherst – Department of Music and Dance
UMass Amherst provides strong academic and performance-based programs at an affordable rate. It offers a blend of classical training, music education, and modern music studies.
Programs:
- Music Education
- Performance
- Composition
- Jazz and African-American Music
Why Students Choose It:
Excellent state-funded facilities and lower fees than private conservatories.
Estimated Fees:
$16,000 – $38,000 per year (in-state vs out-of-state)
5. Boston University School of Music
BU’s School of Music provides conservatory-level training within a major research university. It is strong in classical performance, conducting, and composition.
Programs:
- Orchestral Instruments
- Voice
- Musicology
- Conducting
- Theory and Composition
Standout Feature:
Strong graduate pathways and research-focused offerings.
Estimated Fees:
$58,000 – $61,000 per year
6. Harvard University – Department of Music
While Harvard is not a conservatory, its music department is highly respected for music theory, composition, ethnomusicology, and academic music studies.
Programs:
- Music Theory
- Composition
- Musicology
- Ethnomusicology
Why It’s Notable:
Students access world-class resources and cross-register with NEC.
Estimated Fees:
$57,000 – $60,000 per year
7. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) – Music and Theater Arts
MIT offers exceptional programs in music technology, composition, and innovative interdisciplinary music studies.
Programs:
- Music Technology
- Computer Music
- Composition
- Performance
Reason to Choose MIT:
Best for students interested in blending engineering, technology, and music.
Estimated Fees:
$57,000 – $61,000 per year
8. UMass Lowell – Music Department
UMass Lowell is especially strong in sound recording technology and music business.
Programs:
- Sound Recording Technology (SRT)
- Music Business
- Music Education
- Performance
Highlight:
One of the top SRT programs in the U.S.
Estimated Fees:
$14,000 – $34,000 per year (in-state vs out-of-state)
9. Northeastern University – Music Department
Northeastern blends music with technology, entrepreneurship, and experiential learning through its co-op program.
Programs:
- Music Technology
- Music Industry
- Composition
- Popular Music
Why It Stands Out:
Strong industry placements and technology-driven curriculum.
Estimated Fees:
$60,000 – $64,000 per year
10. Berklee Online – Boston (Distance Learning)
The online division of Berklee provides world-class training remotely.
Programs:
- Music Production
- Songwriting
- Film Scoring
- Guitar, Piano, Voice Lessons
- Music Business
Advantage:
More affordable and flexible, ideal for working adults or distant learners.
Estimated Fees:
$18,000 – $25,000 per year (degree programs)
11. Gordon College – Department of Music
Gordon College, a Christian liberal arts school, provides strong musical training with a focus on community and artistic development.
Programs:
- Music Education
- Performance
- Worship Arts
- Music Theory
Unique Benefit:
A supportive environment with impressive faculty and ensembles.
Estimated Fees:
$29,000 – $36,000 per year (after aid)
12. Brandeis University – Department of Music
Brandeis offers advanced programs in composition, theory, and musicology, perfect for academically minded students.
Programs:
- Composition
- Musicology
- Performance
- Theory
Best For:
Students seeking a blend of academic excellence and artistic creativity.
Estimated Fees:
$57,000 – $60,000 per year
13. Worcester State University – Visual & Performing Arts Department
An affordable option with solid programs in performance, music technology, and education.
Programs:
- Performance
- Music Education
- Music Technology
- Composition
What Makes It Special:
Great value and supportive faculty.
Estimated Fees:
$11,000 – $16,000 per year (in-state)
14. Bridgewater State University – Music Department
BSU offers high-quality and affordable music programs with strong training for music educators.
Programs:
- Music Education
- Performance
- Theory and Composition
- Jazz Studies
Why It’s Included:
Strong teaching preparation and vibrant campus music culture.
Estimated Fees:
$11,000 – $17,000 per year (in-state)
15. Salem State University – Music & Dance Department
Salem State provides accessible and flexible music programs with strong community involvement.
Programs:
- Performance
- Music Education
- Recording & Electronic Music
- Composition
Reason It’s a Top Choice:
Affordable, diverse programs with a creative learning atmosphere.
Estimated Fees:
$11,000 – $18,000 per year (in-state vs out-of-state)
Conclusion
Massachusetts is one of America’s strongest states for music education, offering world-class conservatories, top-tier university programs, and innovative music technology training. Whether you want to study classical performance, electronic production, jazz, composition, or music business, this list provides excellent pathways for your music career