Curtis Institute of Music vs Berklee

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the primary differences in focus between Curtis Institute of Music and Berklee College of Music?

  Curtis Institute of Music is laser-focused on classical music performance, offering intensive, conservatory-style training with a very small student body. Berklee College of Music, on the other hand, provides a broader education in contemporary music, including jazz, pop, rock, film scoring, and music production, with a significantly larger and more diverse student population.

• How selective are Curtis and Berklee in their admissions processes?

  Curtis Institute of Music is exceptionally selective, admitting only a handful of students each year. Admission is highly competitive, based on exceptional musical talent and potential. Berklee College of Music is also selective, but generally has a higher acceptance rate than Curtis. Admission is based on audition, academic record, and demonstrated musical ability, but the pool of applicants is much larger.

• What are the tuition costs like at Curtis and Berklee?

  Curtis Institute of Music offers full-tuition scholarships to all admitted students, making it essentially tuition-free. Berklee College of Music has a significant tuition cost, although financial aid and scholarships are available to help offset the expense. The cost difference is a major factor for many prospective students.

• What degree programs are offered at Curtis and Berklee?

  Curtis Institute of Music primarily offers Bachelor of Music and Master of Music degrees in performance, with a strong emphasis on instrumental and vocal performance. Berklee College of Music offers a wider range of Bachelor of Music degrees, as well as Master of Music degrees, covering areas like music production, songwriting, film scoring, music business, and various performance styles.

• What is the student body size and campus environment like at each school?

  Curtis Institute of Music has a very small student body, fostering an intimate and highly focused learning environment. The campus is located in Philadelphia. Berklee College of Music has a much larger student body, creating a more diverse and collaborative environment. Berklee's main campus is in Boston, with additional campuses and programs in other locations.

• How do the performance opportunities differ at Curtis and Berklee?

  At Curtis, performance opportunities are centered around classical music, with students frequently performing with renowned orchestras and ensembles. The focus is on developing exceptional solo and ensemble performance skills. Berklee provides performance opportunities across a wide range of contemporary music genres, with a focus on developing skills for the music industry, including live performance, recording, and songwriting.

• What are the career prospects like for graduates of Curtis and Berklee?

  Curtis graduates are typically well-prepared for careers in professional orchestras, opera companies, and solo performance. Berklee graduates find careers in a variety of music-related fields, including performance, songwriting, music production, music business, film scoring, and music education. Both schools have strong alumni networks that can assist with career placement.

• Which school is better for someone interested in classical music?

  Curtis Institute of Music is the clear choice for students primarily interested in classical music performance. Its intensive training and focus on classical repertoire are unmatched.

• Which school is better for someone interested in contemporary music?

  Berklee College of Music is the better choice for students interested in contemporary music. Its curriculum, faculty, and resources are specifically designed to prepare students for careers in various contemporary music genres and the music industry.

• How important is it to have prior musical experience before applying to either school?

  Both schools require significant prior musical experience. Curtis demands a very high level of proficiency in classical music performance. Berklee requires a strong foundation in music theory and performance, though the specific requirements may vary depending on the program and instrument.