New England Conservatory

One of the oldest and most prestigious schools of music in the United States, New England Conservatory of Music in Boston, Massachusetts, offers undergraduate and graduate-level training in music as well as collaborative programs with some of the area’s prestigious four-year universities. Students and faculty have also gone on to perform with top symphonies and win some of the most respected music awards. The most well known programs at New England Conservatory are those offered in strings, jazz, percussion and chamber music. Degrees are also awarded in such areas as: * Composition * Conducting * Contemporary Improvisation * Piano performance * Voice and Opera In addition to offering bachelor’s and master’s degrees, students may undertake a five-year double degree in conjunction with Harvard University and Tufts University. Even outside of the classroom quality music is the focus, with New England Conservatory hosting hundreds of concerts on campus each year. In addition to becoming players in the Boston Symphony Orchestra, many graduates have gone on to win Grammy Awards and Macarthur Fellowships. The conservatory has served as a training ground for orchestral players to fill the ranks of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, much like the Curtis Institute serves as a training ground for the Philadelphia Orchestra, although composers, pianists, and singers are offered courses of study as well. The most important factor in the admissions process is the quality of one’s audition. In addition, some programs actually require a pre-screening via submitted video, which is submitted prior to the live audition. Applicants also need to submit transcripts, an outline of their musical background and letters of recommendation. Financial aid awards include loans and grants, which are offered according to financial need. Talent scholarships are also given for particularly exceptional students. To apply for aid students must fill out a FAFSA, which can be done online.

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