What are some great music colleges?

I'm a junior looking into music programs, and I'm curious about some great music colleges that I should consider. Apart from the popular ones like Juilliard and Berklee, do you guys have any other suggestions that I should look into? Much appreciated!

There are many excellent music colleges beyond the well-known names like Juilliard and Berklee. Here are some options to consider:

1. Eastman School of Music (University of Rochester): Known for offering a conservatory-style education within a larger research institution, Eastman boasts strong programs in various musical disciplines, including classical performance, jazz, and composition.

2. Curtis Institute of Music: Curtis is a prestigious conservatory in Philadelphia that is highly selective, with an acceptance rate around 4%. Students receive an all-scholarship education focused on individualized study, with performance opportunities in the school's orchestra and opera productions.

3. New England Conservatory (NEC): Located in Boston, NEC offers conservatory-style training in a variety of musical disciplines, including classical performance, jazz, and composition. NEC is also known for nurturing innovative cross-genre collaborations.

4. Manhattan School of Music: This conservatory in New York City emphasizes performance, with a range of programs in classical music, jazz, and musical theater. Students perform regularly in on-campus recitals as well as acclaimed NYC performance venues.

5. Oberlin Conservatory of Music: Oberlin combines a strong conservatory education with a broad liberal arts education at the larger Oberlin College. Students can choose from programs in composition, music history, performance, and more.

6. Thornton School of Music (University of Southern California): A top music school within a research university, Thornton offers students access to world-class resources as well as a variety of music majors, including classical performance, music production, film scoring, and popular music.

7. Peabody Institute (Johns Hopkins University): As part of a top-tier research university, Peabody offers rigorous music programs alongside the opportunity to explore other academic interests. Students can major in classical performance, composition, conducting, and music education.

8. Indiana University Jacobs School of Music: With a large and diverse faculty, Jacobs offers programs in classical performance, composition, jazz studies, and music education. It also houses one of the largest and most comprehensive music libraries in the world.

9. Shepherd School of Music (Rice University): A smaller conservatory within a top university, Shepherd focuses on offering students individualized attention and mentorship. Students can pursue areas like classical performance, composition, and musicology.

10. Royal College of Music (London, UK): If you're open to going international, Royal College of Music is a top institution in classical music education, offering performance, composition, and conducting programs.

When considering your options, think about the size and structure of the school (conservatory vs. music school within a larger university), types of musical programs offered, location, and any unique opportunities like study abroad or cross-disciplinary collaborations. If you can, try to visit the campuses, attend performances, and speak with current students to get a better sense of which school is the best fit for your career goals and personal preferences.