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Berklee College of Music

Boston, MA

private nonprofitgraduate

About Berklee College of Music

Berklee College of Music: The global leader in contemporary music education, shaping tomorrow's artists.

Step into the vibrant world of Berklee College of Music, the largest independent college of contemporary music on the planet. Located in dynamic Boston, Massachusetts, with an additional campus in Valencia, Spain, Berklee is a premier destination for aspiring musicians who dream beyond the classical. From its roots in jazz and modern American music, Berklee has expanded to offer unparalleled college-level instruction across an incredible spectrum of styles, including rock, hip hop, reggae, salsa, heavy metal, and bluegrass, ensuring every student finds their rhythm.

The college's groundbreaking journey began in 1945 as Schillinger House, founded by Lawrence Berk. At a time when most music schools strictly adhered to classical traditions, Berklee courageously carved a new path, focusing on jazz and commercial music crucial for radio, theater, television, and dance. This innovative approach quickly attracted a diverse student body, including many World War II veterans utilizing the G.I. Bill. Renamed Berklee School of Music in 1954, the institution continued to broaden its curriculum, always staying at the forefront of musical evolution.

Today, Berklee stands as a testament to innovation and excellence. In 2015, it merged with the esteemed Boston Conservatory, creating an even more comprehensive artistic institution now known simply as Berklee. The college is dedicated to providing an immersive and challenging academic environment, equipping students with the theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and industry insights needed to thrive in the competitive music world. With a rich history of pioneering modern music education, Berklee continues to inspire and produce generations of musical legends.

Key Highlights

  • The world's largest independent college of contemporary music.
  • Alumni have won an astounding 310 Grammy Awards and 108 Latin Grammy Awards, more than any other college.
  • Graduates have also earned 34 Emmy Awards, 7 Tony Awards, 8 Academy Awards, and 3 Saturn Awards.
  • Established in 1945, Berklee pioneered formal education in jazz and contemporary commercial music.
  • Offers a vast curriculum spanning diverse genres including rock, hip hop, reggae, salsa, heavy metal, and bluegrass.
  • Operates two campuses: its main campus in Boston, Massachusetts, and an international campus in Valencia, Spain (since 2012).
  • Boasts an endowment of $426.4 million and educates 8,369 students (fall 2024).

Timeline

1945
Lawrence Berk founds Schillinger House, the precursor to Berklee, specializing in jazz and commercial music.
1949
Enrollment at Schillinger House grows to over 500 students.
1954
The school is renamed Berklee School of Music, reflecting a broader curriculum.
2012
Berklee College of Music opens an international campus in Valencia, Spain.
2015
Berklee College of Music merges with The Boston Conservatory, forming a combined institution.

Schools & Colleges

1 notable schools within Berklee College of Music

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The Boston Conservatory at Berklee

Formed in 2015 through a merger, it represents the conservatory division within Berklee, offering classical music, dance, and theater programs.

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