The New England Conservatory of Music vs Berklee

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between New England Conservatory (NEC) and Berklee College of Music?

  NEC emphasizes a classical and traditional conservatory approach, focusing on performance and rigorous training in classical music, opera, and jazz. Berklee, on the other hand, offers a broader range of contemporary music styles, including pop, rock, film scoring, electronic music production, and music business, with a greater emphasis on contemporary performance and songwriting.

• Which school is better for classical music performance?

  For classical music performance, NEC is generally considered the stronger choice. Its curriculum is deeply rooted in classical tradition, with a faculty comprised of renowned classical musicians and a strong focus on orchestral and chamber music performance.

• Which school is better for contemporary music genres like pop, rock, or electronic music?

  Berklee College of Music is the better choice for contemporary music genres. It offers a wide array of programs in these areas, with state-of-the-art facilities and a faculty of industry professionals experienced in contemporary music production and performance.

• How do the faculty and teaching styles differ between NEC and Berklee?

  NEC's faculty primarily consists of established classical musicians, often principal players in major orchestras or renowned soloists. The teaching style is typically more traditional, emphasizing individual instruction and rigorous practice. Berklee's faculty includes a mix of accomplished performers, songwriters, producers, and music business professionals from various contemporary genres. The teaching style is often more collaborative and project-based, encouraging experimentation and innovation.

• What are the differences in campus culture and student life?

  NEC has a smaller, more intimate campus environment with a strong sense of community among classical musicians. Student life revolves heavily around rehearsals, performances, and masterclasses. Berklee has a larger, more diverse student body with a wider range of musical interests. Student life is more varied, with opportunities to participate in numerous ensembles, clubs, and events across different genres.

• How do the career opportunities differ for graduates of NEC and Berklee?

  NEC graduates often pursue careers as orchestral musicians, soloists, chamber musicians, opera singers, and music educators in classical settings. Berklee graduates find careers as performers, songwriters, producers, film composers, music business executives, and educators in a wider range of contemporary music industries.

• What are the admission requirements like for each school?

  Both NEC and Berklee require auditions as part of the admission process. NEC's audition requirements are typically more focused on classical repertoire and technical proficiency. Berklee's auditions allow for a broader range of musical styles and emphasize performance skills, improvisation, and songwriting ability. Both schools also consider academic transcripts, essays, and letters of recommendation.

• How do the facilities compare between NEC and Berklee?

  Both schools have excellent facilities. NEC boasts historic performance halls like Jordan Hall, renowned for its acoustics, and dedicated practice rooms. Berklee offers state-of-the-art recording studios, performance spaces designed for contemporary music, and technology labs equipped with the latest music production software.

• Do both schools offer financial aid and scholarships?

  Yes, both NEC and Berklee offer financial aid and scholarships to qualified students. The availability and amount of aid vary based on factors such as financial need, academic merit, and audition performance. It's important to research the specific financial aid options and deadlines for each school.

• Are there opportunities for cross-registration or collaboration between NEC and Berklee?

  While not a formal cross-registration program, the proximity of NEC and Berklee in Boston allows for informal collaboration and networking between students. Students may attend concerts and masterclasses at the other institution, and some faculty members may teach at both schools. However, earning credit at one institution for courses taken at the other is generally not possible.

• Which school is more expensive?

  Tuition costs are comparable between NEC and Berklee. However, the overall cost of attendance can vary depending on factors such as housing, living expenses, and financial aid packages. It's best to consult the official websites of both schools for the most up-to-date tuition and fee information.

• What are the strengths of NEC's jazz program compared to Berklee's?

  While Berklee is renowned for its contemporary jazz focus, NEC's jazz program offers a strong foundation in traditional jazz styles and improvisation, often emphasizing a more academic and historical approach. NEC's program also benefits from its close ties to the classical music world, fostering a unique blend of influences.