It’s no secret that the music production industry has witnessed a remarkable surge in revenue in recent years. According to a report by Statista, the global music industry revenue reached a staggering $21.6 billion in 2020.
In this comprehensive guide, we present the best music production schools in the world. These are great for aspiring musicians and producers who want to get started in the industry.
These schools offer top-notch education, cutting-edge technology, experienced faculty, and a nurturing environment. These features are excellent for students to hone their skills and flourish in the music production industry.
With that said, let’s jump straight in.
1. Berklee College of Music – Boston, USA
Berklee College of Music, located in the heart of Boston, Massachusetts, is a renowned institution for music education. Established in 1945, it has been a pioneer in contemporary music education, producing numerous Grammy-winning artists.
The college offers a wide range of music production programs, covering areas like audio engineering, music synthesis, and sound design.
Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, world-class faculty, and networking opportunities with industry professionals.
2. Abbey Road Institute – London, England
The Abbey Road Institute, situated in London, UK, draws inspiration from the iconic Abbey Road Studios, where legendary artists like The Beatles recorded their music.
This school provides hands-on training in modern music production techniques, audio recording, and mixing.
With a strong focus on creativity and technical expertise, students get the chance to work with cutting-edge equipment and learn from experienced industry experts.
3. SAE Institute – Berlin, Germany
SAE Institute in Berlin is part of a global network of creative media campuses. It offers comprehensive music production courses with a strong emphasis on practical experience.
Students have access to top-notch studios, equipment, and software tools used in the music industry.
The faculty comprises industry professionals who provide valuable insights and mentorship to aspiring music producers.
4. Full Sail University – Winter Park, USA
Located in Winter Park, Florida, Full Sail University is known for its immersive and accelerated programs in music production and recording arts.
The school’s campus includes industry-standard recording studios, soundstages, and labs, enabling students to gain hands-on experience in real-world environments.
The curriculum covers everything from music theory to advanced production techniques.
5. Icon Collective – Los Angeles, USA
Icon Collective, situated in Los Angeles, California, is a music production school with a focus on electronic dance music (EDM) and modern music production.
The school offers specialized programs in sound design, synthesis, mixing, and mastering. This makes it an ideal choice for those aspiring to become electronic music producers.
The vibrant atmosphere and connections to the music industry in LA provide students with valuable networking opportunities.
6. Point Blank Music School – London, England
Point Blank Music School in London offers a diverse range of music production courses suitable for both beginners and experienced producers.
The school’s unique selling point is its hands-on approach and small class sizes. It ensures personalized attention and an interactive learning experience.
Students can choose to specialize in various genres and aspects of music production. This includes composition, arrangement, and performance.
7. Musicians Institute – Hollywood, USA
Located in the heart of Hollywood, California, Musicians Institute offers an array of music-related programs, including music production and recording arts.
The institute boasts modern recording studios, performance spaces, and cutting-edge technology. It aims to provide students with an immersive learning experience.
Added to that, the location allows students to connect with industry professionals and immerse themselves in the vibrant music scene.
8. Pyramind – San Francisco, USA
Pyramind, based in San Francisco, California, is an innovative music production school that combines creativity with technical expertise.
The curriculum covers sound design, audio engineering, and interactive audio, catering to various facets of music production.
With a strong emphasis on collaboration and real-world projects, students graduate with the practical skills and industry knowledge needed to succeed.
9. The New School – New York City, USA
The New School in New York City offers a diverse range of music and audio-related programs, including music production and technology.
The faculty comprises accomplished musicians, producers, and engineers who provide invaluable mentorship to students.
The school’s location in NYC opens doors to endless opportunities for networking and exposure to the music industry.
10. Aalborg University – Aalborg, Denmark
Aalborg University, situated in Denmark, offers an innovative program in sound and music production.
The curriculum focuses on research-based learning, combining creativity with technology and entrepreneurship.
Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, research labs, and industry partnerships, enabling them to delve into cutting-edge music production techniques.
11. University of Westminster – London, England
The University of Westminster, located in London, offers a comprehensive music technology program that covers various aspects of music production, sound engineering, and audio post-production.
With access to state-of-the-art recording studios and production suites, students receive hands-on training in the latest industry-standard equipment.
The university’s central London location also provides excellent opportunities for networking and exposure to the vibrant music scene.
12. Electronic Music Production & Performance (EMPP) – Paris, France
EMPP in Paris is dedicated to electronic music production and performance. The school’s curriculum focuses on electronic music genres, DJing, live performance, and music technology.
Students learn from experienced electronic music producers and artists and have access to cutting-edge synthesizers, controllers, and software tools.
EMPP’s immersive approach allows students to delve deep into the world of electronic music production and develop their unique sound.
13. LIM College – New York City, USA
LIM College in New York City offers a music business program that caters to aspiring music producers interested in the business side of the industry.
Students learn about artist management, music marketing, and music licensing, along with essential music production skills.
With access to the city’s music industry professionals and internship opportunities, LIM College prepares students for a career in music production and the dynamic world of music business.
14. Valencia Berklee College of Music – Valencia, Spain
Valencia Berklee College of Music is the international campus of the prestigious Berklee College of Music. Situated in Valencia, Spain, this campus offers a diverse range of music production programs.
Students can explore areas like film scoring, game audio, and music technology.
The campus’s multicultural environment fosters collaboration and allows students to gain a global perspective on music production.
15. Mediatech Institute – Austin, USA
Mediatech Institute, located in Austin, Texas, focuses on hands-on training in audio engineering, music production, and post-production.
The school’s curriculum covers recording techniques, mixing, and mastering, preparing students for a wide range of roles in the music and entertainment industries.
Austin’s vibrant music scene provides a perfect backdrop for students to immerse themselves in real-world projects and build industry connections.
In Conclusion
By providing detailed insights into the top music production schools worldwide, we aim to equip aspiring musicians and producers with the necessary information to make informed decisions about their education and career paths.
Each of these schools offers unique strengths, depending on individual preferences. A beginner can find the perfect environment to nurture their passion for music production.
FAQs – Top Music Production Schools Around the Globe
What criteria should I consider when choosing a music production school?
When selecting a music production school, several factors play a crucial role.
Consider factors like:
- The school’s reputation and ranking in the music industry,
- The expertise and experience of the faculty,
- The availability of state-of-the-art equipment and recording studios,
- The variety of music production programs offered, and
- The school’s location and networking opportunities with industry professionals.
Are these schools suitable for beginners with no prior music production experience?
Yes, many of the schools listed in our article cater to students with varying levels of experience, including beginners. They offer comprehensive programs that cover the fundamentals of music production and provide hands-on training to ensure students develop the necessary skills regardless of their starting point.
Can international students apply to these schools?
Yes, most of the featured music production schools welcome international students.
In fact, some institutions, like Valencia Berklee College of Music and Abbey Road Institute, have dedicated international campuses that attract students from around the world.
Each school typically has an admissions process specifically designed to accommodate international applicants.
How do these schools prepare students for careers in the music production industry?
These schools prioritize practical experience and industry connections to prepare students for successful careers in music production.
Through hands-on training, access to cutting-edge technology, collaboration on real-world projects, and networking opportunities with industry professionals.
Students gain valuable insights and build a strong foundation to enter the competitive music production industry with confidence.
Are there scholarships or financial aid options available for students?
Yes, many of the top music production schools offer scholarships, grants, and financial aid options to help students manage the cost of their education.
Each school may have specific eligibility criteria and application processes for scholarships.
So it’s important for prospective students to explore these opportunities and apply accordingly.
What kind of facilities and equipment can I expect in these schools?
The featured music production schools boast state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge equipment to provide students with a realistic industry experience.
You can expect access to modern recording studios, and soundproofed rooms for mixing and mastering.
You can also expect high-quality microphones, digital audio workstations (DAWs), MIDI controllers, synthesizers, and an array of software used in the music production industry.
How do these schools foster a creative and collaborative learning environment?
Music production schools prioritize creativity and collaboration to nurture the artistic potential of their students.
They often organize workshops, group projects, and collaborative sessions to encourage students to work together and learn from one another.
With that said, the faculty, which typically comprises experienced industry professionals, fosters an open and supportive atmosphere. This then inspires students to explore their unique artistic visions.
Can graduates from these schools pursue careers in fields other than music production?
Yes, graduates from these schools often have a diverse skill set that can be applied to various creative and technical roles in the music and entertainment industries.
Apart from becoming music producers and engineers, graduates may explore careers in sound design for films and video games.
Graduates are also exposed to music composition, audio post-production, live sound engineering, and even music entrepreneurship and business management.
How can I best prepare for the application process to these schools?
To prepare for the application process, start by thoroughly researching each school’s specific requirements and application deadlines.
Focus on building a strong portfolio showcasing any prior music production experience, projects, or compositions.
In addition, consider attending any open houses, webinars, or virtual tours offered by the schools to gain insights into their programs and get a feel for the campus environment.
Do these schools offer internships or job placement assistance?
Yes, many of these schools maintain strong ties with the music industry. They also offer internship opportunities for students to gain real-world experience while studying.
In addition to that, they often provide career services and job placement assistance. This successfully guides graduates in their job search and connects them with potential employers and industry contacts.
Mike is a skilled musician, guitar technician, and music producer with a passion for audio and gear. He excels in teaching guitar, editing podcasts/videos, and creating captivating soundscapes using cutting-edge hardware, software, and plugins. Mike’s talent and commitment make him highly sought-after in the industry, inspiring fellow musicians worldwide.
