best music production schools
If you are a composer who wants to break into the world of media composing (for example - T.V., film, corporate work etc.) then a background knowledge of production techniques will give you an edge over other composers. Enroling in a music production course will enable you to produce the work you have arranged to a high standard, which can often then be achieved on your own home computer set-up, given the right gear and know-how.
I'm often asked by budding composers and producers where the best places are to study or find online courses in music production skills. So rather then recommending just one or two good colleges, I've compiled a short list of music schools which have facilities specializing in music production. I've also restricted this list to the USA for the moment, and to colleges offering degree/postgraduates in music production. (One of these institutes [Berklee] offers online production courses). When you're done here you may also want to read this checklist for factors to consider when choosing a music production school. |
Berklee School of Music
Berklee was founded in 1945, orginally with an emphasis on the study of Jazz. It has since diversified into many areas of contemporary music making, and is considered a world leader in online music courses and popular music education. |
Courses
Three degree courses:-
* music production and engineering
* electronic production and design
* music production and engineering
Berklee also currently offers over 40 different courses in music production, many of which are available online. |
Contact
1140 Boylston Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02215
Tel: (617) 747-2222 |
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Virginia Tech
The Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University is a leading research institution which boasts extensive undergraduate and graduate degree programs. It's motto is "that I may serve" (Ut Prosim) with a three-fold mission - learning, discovery and engagement. |
Courses
One degree course:-
"Our students study the basics of acoustics, recording and mixed-media production through the use of both conventional and emerging technologies".
Virginia Tech places an emphasis on artistic development. Hence students are expected to continue to develop their instrumental abilities throughout their studies. |
Contact
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University,
Blacksburg, Virginia 24061-0002
Tel: (540) 231-6000
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New York University
New York Universities Steinhardt's Department of Music and Performing Arts was founded in 1925 and merged with the NYC Music college in 1968. It is considered a major research and practice area for music technology, composition and film scoring, amongst other disciplines. |
Courses
Several courses:-
* undergraduate (B.A. in Music Technology)
* graduate (M.A. in Music Technology)
* research (Phd in Music Technology)
"Students are allowed to develop expertise within an academic setting where learning by creative experimentation is encouraged". |
Contact
NYU Steinhardt Department of Music and Performing Arts Professions - 35 W. 4th Street, Suite 1077 - New York, NY 10012
Tel: (212) 998-5422 |
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University of Miami
The Media Writing and Production program at the University of Miami seeks to expose & educate students in a diverse range of musical styles and equip them with the necessary technical skills to realise their compositions within production music recording technology. |
Courses
Two courses:-
* Degree Major in Media Writing & Production (MWP)
* Master of Media Writing & Production (MWP)
"...successful students complete diverse compositional assignments, develop technical and practical skills in the recording studio, and acquire an understanding of the music industry.". |
Contact
University of Miami, Frost School of Music
P.O. Box 248165
Coral Gables, FL 33124-7610
Tel: 305-284-2241
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Georgia State University
This School of Music at Georgia State University offers an innovative learning program and seeks to equip the student for artistic and technical careers in the music industry. |
Courses
One degree course:-
* Music Technology (Recording/Music Production) (Bachelor of Music)
"Students are both aesthetically and practically trained for work as audio engineers and music technologists". |
Contact
School of Music,
Georgia State University,
P.O. Box 4097,
Atlanta, GA 30302-4097
Tel: 404-413-5900
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