What universities near Nashville should I look at for music and arts programs?

I'm really interested in pursuing a degree related to music or the arts, and Nashville seems like an amazing place given its reputation in the music industry. Can anyone recommend universities near Nashville that are known for their music and arts programs? I'm trying to find a place that not only has strong academics but also provides opportunities to engage with the local music scene.

Nashville is a fantastic city for anyone interested in music and the arts, there are definitely several universities there that would be worth considering. First and foremost, you should look at Vanderbilt University, which is located in the heart of Nashville. It's a top-tier university known for its strong academics including its College of Arts and Science, as well as its Blair School of Music, which offers programs in areas like musical arts, composition, and performance.

Another noteworthy institution in Nashville is Belmont University. Known for its Mike Curb College of Entertainment and Music Business, the university offers a diverse array of programs ranging from audio engineering technology to songwriting. One major advantage of Belmont is its deep integration with the local music scene, offering students numerous opportunities for internships and networking in Nashville's renowned music industry.

Lipscomb University, another Nashville institution, also features robust programs in music and the arts. Their School of Music offers degrees in areas like music education, commercial music, and music performance. Lipscomb also has a College of Entertainment & the Arts offering programs in film production, animation, and fashion design, among others.

Don't forget about The Watkins College of Art at Belmont University, which offers top-notch arts education in areas such as film, photography, and graphic design.

Finally, for a slightly different approach, you might also consider Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU), which is located just outside of Nashville in Murfreesboro. MTSU has a renowned College of Media and Entertainment, including a Department of Recording Industry that's highly respected in the music business.

These universities all offer strong programs in music and arts, and all have connections to Nashville's thriving entertainment industry. When researching these, look at both the specifics of their academic programs and how they engage with the local music industry through internships, classes, and other initiatives. This will help you get a feel for how each would support your academic and career goals.