The two most well-known music schools in the United States, Juilliard and Berklee, may come to mind first when people think of music schools.
While both of these institutions are excellent, there are many more outstanding music schools outside the Upper East Coast.
Texas is home to many university-based music schools, some of which are just as esteemed by artists in the know as their eastern counterparts.
Over 170 schools and universities can be found in Texas, several of which are nationally famous and are included on this list.
Austin, one of Texas’s most notable cities, is well-known for being the “Live Music Capital of the World.” Austin has a great music school that is on this list.
However, we’ll examine Texas’ top ten music schools. We evaluated these universities based on their relationships with important cultural institutions (such as symphony orchestras), resources, faculty quality, student success, and more.
Are there Music Schools in Texas?
There are a couple of music schools in Texas. These music schools offer many programs to students under the music course. They Include:
- University of North Texas School of Music
- Rice University School of Music
- The University of Texas, Austin Butler School of Music
- Southern Methodist University Meadows School of the Arts
- Baylor University School of Music
- University of Houston Moores School of Music
- Texas Tech University School of Music
- Texas Christian University School of Music
- Dallas Baptist University
- Texas State University School of Music
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How Long Does it Take to Get a Degree in Music in Texas?
Students in the Music program are prepared to enter a 4-year bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, or associate degree program by taking general courses in the liberal arts and learning performance, theory, aural skills, and piano.
This study area offers specializations in performance, composition, history, theory, jazz studies, music production, church music, and music technology. Most course material is devoted to music theory, history, and performance.
Usually offering specializations in dance and musical theater, a bachelor of fine arts (BFA) degree can be obtained in four years or longer. Numerous colleges offer a BFA in performing music, but BM degrees are sometimes desired.
Also, the Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree normally takes four years to complete and includes essential liberal arts courses, including arithmetic, physics, literature, and history.
With this degree, international students can pursue music management and business specializations. A BA degree differs from a BM/BFA degree in that admission to the program is not contingent upon passing an audition, a sophomore review, or a recital.
Programs leading to the BM/BFA degree heavily emphasize musical theory and mandate ensemble involvement.
A Bachelor of Science (BS) degree is also available for students who want to major in music, plus another field that the music department doesn’t offer.
The Bachelor of Music Education (BME) degree combines education courses with music for those who desire to teach music at the elementary through high school levels.
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How Much Do Music Schools in Texas Cost?
On average, students pay as much as $64,843 to attend a music school in Texas.
This tuition covers all the school costs, including board, feeding, and other necessities.
For example, when you consider that the tuition and room and board for out-of-state students are $31,363 and for in-state students are $22,003, the UNT College of Music is very affordable.
Therefore, compared to other schools where the approximate cost of tuition and room & board can be as high as $65,000 per year, $10,000 in scholarships at UNT will go a lot further!
What are the Requirements of Music Schools in Texas?
College students in Texas can get an associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in music. For degree programs, there are extra minors, and graduate certifications are available for specialized employment. Other programs are designed to give students a chance to study music in addition to other courses, while some are designed to prepare graduates for careers in performance and instruction.
Students can also focus on commercial music, music therapy, music business, or music theory. Music majors can gain useful skills by participating in recording studios, music labs, and performing ensembles. This article discusses the top ten Texas colleges and universities having music programs.
Before one can be admitted into a music school in Texas, the aspirant must have these requirements:
- Minimum Texas State GPA of 2.00
- Minimum Major GPA of 2.25 (music studies students are required to have a 2.85 per the Texas State Music Studies area)
- Minimum Minor GPA (if applicable) of 2.00
- Minimum Grades of C or higher or CR in each music course required for major or minor
- Minimum hours of 120 hours (the music studies degree requires more than 120 hours to complete course requirements due to the College of Education Teacher Certification courses)
- Advanced hours (3000 & 4000-level) of 36 hours
- Foreign Language proficiency Completion of at least 2 years of the same language in High School or at the university level
- Computer proficiency Completion of at least 1 year of a computer-based course in High School or at the university level
What are the Best Music Schools in Texas?
Out of all the music schools in Texas, these 10 are considered the best. They include:
1. University of North Texas School of Music
Many talented and accomplished musicians, composers, and academics call the University of North Texas School of Music home.
The school of music is excellent and deserving of the top rank on College Factual’s list of the “Finest Colleges for Music,” as well as the best schools for veterans and non-traditional students.
However, other reputable sources, such as Billboard Magazine, Grad Reports, and the Fiske Guide to Colleges, give UNTSCM good marks.
The One O’Clock Lab Band, a Grammy-winning group of the school’s brightest performers, is the jazz program’s driving force at the UNT School of Music.
Also, Jay Saunders, a seasoned jazz musician who has played with groups, including the Stan Kenton Orchestra, is the group’s current director.
UNT is one of the greatest music schools in the country outside of jazz, and we previously named it the best-performing arts institution in the nation.
2. Rice University School of Music
Rice University School of Music is one of the most selective universities on this list. According to reports, the acceptance percentage is 12%, slightly higher than Rice’s overall acceptance average of 9%. The Shepherd School of Music at Rice receives over 800 applications for just over 80 openings.
Consequently, the Shepherd School of Music’s distinctive admissions procedure is well-known. The departments of instrumental, vocal, and ensemble music determine who will be chosen based on their unique requirements. Why are there so many who want to be musicians fighting for a position?
Also, the Shepherd Institution’s reputation as a top music school worldwide is a result of the tremendous musical accomplishments of its alumni. Alumni have performed at prestigious music halls and opera houses worldwide and earned Grammy Awards and Pulitzer Prizes.
In addition, the Houston Symphony Orchestra has joint appointments with several of Shepherd’s faculty members, many of whom are among the most accomplished musicians in the world.
3. The University of Texas, Austin Butler School of Music
One of the biggest colleges on this list is the Butler School of Music at the University of Texas at Austin. Butler University has around 650 music students and 100 music faculty members. Despite its size, the institution maintains a 7:1 student-to-teacher ratio, enabling personalized and cutting-edge training and education.
Furthermore, the professors at Butler are accomplished artists, researchers, and educators. Awards from major institutions and foundations, including Guggenheim, Rockefeller, Fulbright, and MacArthur, have been given to them.
Others have played with the London Symphony Orchestra and other renowned orchestras domestically and abroad.
In addition, the Butler School of Music at UT Austin is one of several excellent institutions that provide students with a wealth of professional prospects.
Students give solo recitals and ensemble performances every year, both domestically and overseas. These career opportunities match cutting-edge academic programs.
Also, the study options at Butler are numerous and varied. One of Butler’s most well-liked undergraduate programs and one of the most well-respected programs in music and human learning.
4. Southern Methodist University Meadows School of the Arts
The Meadows School of the Arts, the university’s division for fine arts, houses the Southern Methodist University School of Music. Alumni can play in churches, symphony orchestras, national and international ensembles, and conducting orchestras.
Moving on, the list of alumni successes is constantly expanding thanks to outstanding instructors and cutting-edge programs. Music Education and Music Therapy are two undergraduate and graduate degrees offered at Meadows.
Also, non-music majors have access to jazz and popular music courses and opportunities to participate in the school’s music ensembles. Meadows students are not the only ones who can take these courses.
Additionally, the Meadows Music faculty members excel as teachers and professionals in their disciplines. Professor and co-chair of Music Education Dr. Sarah Allen has written articles on instrumental music pedagogy and music education in prestigious journals. Dr. Allen is only one illustration of the excellent work done by Meadows professors.
5. Baylor University School of Music
The Baylor University School of Music was founded in 1921 and has 19 groups, small class sizes, and a prime location about 90 miles from Texas’ well-known metropolises.
Furthermore, Baylor music students have pursued careers in renowned orchestras and ensembles worldwide, on Broadway, and in churches. Others have attended prominent universities to obtain further music degrees.
Consequently, Baylor’s music instruction and education are of the highest caliber. Faculty researchers work on various cutting-edge publications, recordings, and collaborative research initiatives with colleagues from many departments.
With an acceptance rate of about 45 percent, Baylor’s admissions process is generally considered challenging. Programs by themselves are typically more selective.
In addition, dual acceptance means that students must first be accepted by Baylor and then the School of Music to be admitted to the School of Music.
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6. University of Houston Moores School of Music
On the “Best Colleges for Music” list compiled by College Factual in 2021, the University of Houston Moores School of Music has the distinction of holding the top rank.
However, the post-graduation earnings and their effects on the job prospects of non-traditional and experienced students were the main determinants of this ranking.
Among other things, UHMSM takes pride in the diversity of its student body. Members of racial and ethnic minorities make up more than half of the student body. Academically, students are highly competitive.
The institution provides a special Music with Optional Studies Program that allows students to focus their musical education and skills on one of three elective concentrations: music marketing, nonprofit music leadership, or teacher certification.
Also, joining one of the many outstanding performance ensembles gives students performance experience. With four staged shows each year, the Moores Opera Center is among the best in the country.
7. Texas Christian University School of Music
The Texas Christian University School of Music equips its students with the knowledge, instruction, and preparation required to excel in an artistic career and beyond.
Furthermore, graduates of TCUSM have found employment as freelance musicians, professional musicians in renowned ensembles and orchestras, music educators, and music producers. Around 90% of graduates from the school get employment each year, which is good.
However, brass and Church Music are only two of the many fields of study available to TCUSM students. One of many instances of the opportunity provided to students to enhance their professional musical skills is the Collegium Musicum, an ensemble that performs Baroque music.
Also, one of the greatest internship programs in the nation is offered by this institution. The Princeton Review ranks TCUSM as the fourth-best school for internships, the sixth-best school for alumni networks, and the eleventh-best school for career services.
8. Texas Tech University School of Music
One of the best music programs in the nation is found at Texas Tech University. It is ranked among the top ten by College Factual in several categories, including “Best Colleges for Music,” “Highest Paid Music Graduates,” and “Best Value Colleges for Music.” These rankings only provide a brief overview of TTUSM’s capabilities.
The TTUSM is situated in Lubbock, known for its thriving arts community, tourism, and historical attractions. The institution is uniquely positioned to offer music majors and non-majors educational, professional, and training opportunities.
However, graduates from the institution have gone on to perform at the Metropolitan Opera, get Fulbright fellowships, and join orchestras with a stellar reputations.
The school is home to several spectacular performance spaces, including the 541-seat Hemmle Recital Hall, which has hosted innumerable performances by established artists and up-and-coming performers.
Additionally, it houses one of Texas’ most notable instrument collections and a reference collection with over 13,000 recordings and musical notation.
9. Dallas Baptist University
Dallas Baptist University’s music department, one of the best in the state, is housed in the College of Fine Arts. The department provides courses in piano performance, theory, vocal performance, music business, and a special interdisciplinary program focusing on worship studies.
Furthermore, DBU offers a wealth of options for music students, and its instructors are knowledgeable in classical and Christian music.
Since many of the faculty members are also graduates of DBU, they can create a supportive and challenging learning environment for their students. The ethos of creativity and Christian service at DBU is shared by faculty and students on a deep and personal level.
Also, most DBU students are adults, 25 years of age or older, juggling their studies with other commitments like professions, families, and other responsibilities.
DBU makes sure that students have access to financial resources to aid them in paying for a college education, including music scholarships, to meet the needs of this sizable, distinctive group.
10. Texas State University School of Music
The Texas State School of Music’s motto is “Somos Msicos,” which translates to “We are musicians.” The slogan emphasizes the school’s vibrant, extraordinarily gifted, and purpose-driven community of musicians, artists, students, and scholars.
However, TSUSM takes pleasure in providing a supportive and all-encompassing learning atmosphere where budding musicians and artists can polish their talent.
TSUSM is renowned for its world-class professors and award-winning ensembles, most notably the Texas State Wind Symphony.
Dr. Ames Asbell, a well-known violinist who has performed and collaborated with well-known performers, including the Dixie Chicks, Andrea Bocelli, and Stevie Wonder, is one notable faculty member. Rising-star violists have learned from Dr. Asbell, and many of her pupils have gone on to study at prominent music colleges.
Also, some of TSUSM’s top-notch, renowned programs include Jazz Performance, Latin Music Studies, and Music Teacher Training. Modern facilities are used for classes and performances, such as the brand-new Performing Arts Center, which has a recital hall with 312 seats and grand pianos.
Also read- Best Music Schools in Colorado
What are the Music Schools in Austin, Texas?
There are music schools where you can study music as a course in Austin. An example is:
- The University of Texas, Austin Butler School of Music
What are the Music Schools in Dallas, Texas?
There are music schools where you can study music as a course in Dallas. They include:
- Southern Methodist University Meadows School of the Arts
- Dallas Baptist University
What are the Music Schools in Houston, Texas?
There are music schools where you can study music as a course in Houston. They include:
- Rice University School of Music
- University of Houston Moores School of Music
What are the Music High Schools in Texas?
Many high schools teach music as a subject in Texas, and they include:
- Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts
- Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts
- Kinder High School for the Performing and Visual Arts
What are the Music Therapy Schools in Texas?
There are many music therapy schools in Texas for troubled people, and some of them are listed below:
- Texas Woman’s University. Denton, TX.
- Sam Houston State University. Huntsville, TX.
- The University of the Incarnate Word. San Antonio, TX.
What are the Music Production Schools in Texas?
The demand for qualified individuals is rising in the exciting music production industry.
With some estimates putting the number of job openings as high as 6,000 each year, this growth is anticipated to continue. Additionally, it is anticipated to rise by 6% between 2020 and 2030.
There are a couple of music production schools in Texas and they include:
- University of North Texas
- Texas Christian University
- Rice University
- Southern Methodist University
What are the Music Education Schools in Texas?
A degree holder in music education can teach music in any school.
Therefore, Texas is not left out as one of the States in the USA that has a couple of schools that offer music education. Some of them are:
- Baylor University
- Southern Methodist University
- Texas Christian University
- Dallas Baptist University
Conclusion
In conclusion, Music is a great course to study as there are many careers to harness from the course.
Texas is a great State to start your music career, and I bet you won’t regret choosing the State.
We hope this article enlightens you on the best music schools you can find in Texas, and making a choice won’t be hard.
Don’t fail to read- Best Music Schools in Tennessee
References
- educationplanetonline.com– 15 Top Music Production Schools in Texas|Tuition & Key Info.
- universities.com– Best Music Production colleges in Texas
- music.txstate.edu– Undergraduate Degree Programs
- collegegazette.com– Discover the 10 Best Music Schools In Texas
