Education is regarded as one of the best careers in the world. Similarly, musicians are very fortunate to have the opportunity to make a living playing their instruments. Through music education, students can gain a deeper understanding of their instrument and their passion for it. Music education programs can prepare musicians for careers in schools as youth ensemble directors. They can also help students pursue graduate studies in music education.
In this article, we’ll present the best music education programs nationwide. These schools are known for their first-class instructors and are equipped with the necessary skills to teach their students. These schools also have vital music programs that provide their students with performance opportunities. Besides being able to provide their students with the necessary education, these schools also offer their students the opportunity to earn teaching licenses in their home states.
- UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music
The UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music’s music education program prepares students for careers as socially responsible and innovative music educators. Besides the necessary skills to teach music, students also learn about various musical genres. The school’s faculty members, such as Lily Chen-Hafteck, are known for their innovative ideas. Recently, she received a grant of $150,000 from the Chancellor’s Council on the Arts to support research projects that will contribute to the university’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, sustainability, and equity.
Frank Heuser, the school’s music education program’s director, previously taught in schools in Orange and Los Angeles counties. Before becoming the director of East Los Angeles College’s instrumental music program, he also taught at various universities, such as California State University and Chapman College.
- The University of Hartford Hartt School of Music
A comprehensive program in the nation when it comes to music education is the Hartt School at the University Of Hartford. It features a complete program that allows students to learn about various musical styles and methods. Besides being able to teach general music, students also receive training in Suzuki, Orff, and Kodly methods.
Through the program, students can collaborate with other schools within the university. In addition, music education majors can also teach kids in the U of Hartford’s magnet school. Through a collaboration with Simsbury Schools, music education majors can now teach various middle and high school classes. The program also provides them with the necessary tools to teach music in schools nationwide.
- St. Olaf College
At St. Olaf College in Minnesota, the music education program is a collaboration between the school’s Music Department and Education Department. Besides special training, students also take courses in pedagogy and literature. The school’s faculty members are highly experienced. One of these is Dale Kruse, an assistant professor who has conducted the Cedar Singers at Augsburg College. He also taught at Wayzata High School and Armstrong High School.
As the music director of the Minnesota Opera, he is well-versed in the power of music. He has also performed with various organizations. Dana Maeda, the school’s visiting instructor, is also a former member of the Windworks Woodwind Quintet and the Rochester Orchestra. She brings a wealth of experience to the university as she has been a band director for 14 years.