Top 6 College Guitar Programs in the U.S.

If you’re preparing to graduate from college, or if you’re the parent of a high school student, you may already be thinking about ways to pay for college. For those who are going to study music, it’s important to find a school that offers a top-notch, reputable program.
A great guitar program should mix private guitar lessons with general music courses, recitals, and even the chance to play in the orchestra or for musical theater performances. If you’re looking for some great college guitar programs in the U.S., here are some you should consider.

1. Berklee College of Music

The Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts, is one of the most respected music schools in the country. Alumni from the guitar program at Berklee include nationally known players such as Al Dimeola and Steve Vai.
In addition to guitar, the college includes programs in orchestral instruments and wind instruments, so students can learn to play almost anything. If you’re looking for a full music program that allows you to focus on the guitar, Berklee College of Music provides just that with the help of their very knowledgeable guitar teachers. You may even be able to secure a great scholarship with your guitar skills.

2. Musicians Institute

Some people consider the Musicians Institute in Hollywood, California, as the top guitar program in the U.S., maybe even in the world. That’s because the institute focuses on rhythm instruments such as the guitar.
While Berklee provides a music program with a focus on guitar, the Musicians Institute offers a program that almost solely focuses on the guitar and on becomes an amazing player. It focuses on helping students pursue their career, too, and teaching students about the music industry and how to succeed in it.

3. University of Southern California

The University of Southern California (USC) in Los Angeles offers an outstanding studio jazz guitar program. This program is known as one of the best in the country and has courses taught by David Oakes, Steve Trovato, Joe Diorio, and other recognized guitar masters. The program’s location in LA puts students at the center of one of the largest markets for musicians in the country.

4. Frost School of Music at the University of Miami

Jumping to the other coast, the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music in Miami has seen music icons such as Enrique Inglesias and Gloria Estefan walk across its stage. Some of the world’s most famous musicians have studied here, learning guitar and other instruments. The school is known for its focus on jazz, though there are courses that cover every possible style.

5. University of North Texas

The University of North Texas at Denton offers outstanding education in every area of music. The school’s goal is to be the best overall music program in the world. This means that while they do have a great guitar program, it’s not the single focus of the school.
While that may discourage some, those seeking a well-rounded musical education with an emphasis on the guitar may find this program is exactly what they’re looking for.

6. University of Northern Colorado

Located in Greeley, the University of Northern Colorado presents students with a strong music program. While the undergraduate degree may not seem that noteworthy, the graduate jazz program is recognized as one of the top five music programs in the country. It’s certainly worth considering if you plan on pursuing an advanced degree in guitar.

Start Preparing for the College Audition

Want to get a head start on preparing for college? Taking guitar lessons is a great way to prepare. Many of these colleges require an audition in order to get into their guitar program, so you need to be ready to blow the judges away. Contact Lessons in Your Home today to learn more about our private guitar lessons.

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