Gloria PenAre you passionate about music and dreaming of studying in Europe? You’re in the right place, many people are searching for the opportunity too.
Europe has the best musical heritage, great composers like Mozart and Beethoven, and high-quality music education.
If you’re planning to go into classical music, jazz, opera, or music production, Europe has many world-class institutions that can help you reach your dreams.
In this post, you’ll learn the top 10 best music schools in Europe, each with detailed insights on tuition fees, location, website, and what makes them unique.
Let’s get started.
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Top 10 Best Music Schools in Europe
Whether you’re into classical music, jazz, opera, or music production, Europe has many world-class institutions that can help you reach your dreams. They are as follows:
1. Royal College of Music (RCM), London – United Kingdom
The Royal College of Music is one of the best music schools in Europe and the world at large. Founded in 1883, it’s located in the heart of London and offers programs in performance, composition, conducting, music education, and more.
The best part is that, with frequent collaborations with the Royal Albert Hall and BBC Symphony Orchestra, students get world-class exposure.
Tuition Fees: Around £25,000 per year for international students
Address: Prince Consort Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 2BS, UK
2. Conservatoire de Paris – France
This school is known in French as the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique et de Danse de Paris, this institution dates back to 1795 and is internationally respected for classical and opera training.
Many legendary composers like Claude Debussy and Hector Berlioz, studied here.
Tuition Fees: €600 to €1,200 per year (low cost, especially for EU students)
Address: 209 Avenue Jean Jaurès, 75019 Paris, France
3. University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna – Austria
Vienna is the birthplace of classical music, and this school continues the tradition. It’s recommended as one of the best music schools in Europe as it offers degrees in instrumental studies, vocal performance, conducting, and composition. Its alumni include Gustav Mahler and Herbert von Karajan.
Tuition Fees: Around €1,453 per semester for non-EU students
Address: Anton-von-Webern-Platz 1, 1030 Wien, Austria
4. Hochschule für Musik Hanns Eisler Berlin – Germany
Named after composer Hanns Eisler, this Berlin-based school has good record for its performance-focused curriculum. It’s located near the Berlin Philharmonic, allowing students to engage with real professionals regularly.
Tuition Fees: No tuition fees for most programs; semester fees approx. €300
Address: Charlottenstraße 55, 10117 Berlin, Germany
5. Sibelius Academy – Finland
Sibelius Academy is part of the University of the Arts Helsinki, this academy is named after Jean Sibelius, Finland’s most famous composer.
It’s ideal for students interested in Nordic music traditions, music tech, and innovative composition.
Tuition Fees: €6,000–€12,000 per year for non-EU students
Address: Pohjoinen Rautatiekatu 9, 00100 Helsinki, Finland Visit School
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6. Royal Conservatoire of Scotland – United Kingdom
Located in Glasgow and among the best music schools in Europe to enroll in, this conservatoire offers music, drama, dance, and filmmaking.
It’s also popular for producing multi-talented artists. Its partnerships with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra give students hands-on experience.
Tuition Fees: £20,000–£25,000 per year for international students
Address: 100 Renfrew Street, Glasgow G2 3DB, UK
7. Conservatorium van Amsterdam – Netherlands
The largest music conservatory in the Netherlands, it’s particularly well-regarded for its jazz, pop, and early music departments. The school offers flexible programs and has a very international student body.
Tuition Fees: €8,500–€11,000 per year for non-EU students
Address: Oosterdokskade 151, 1011 DL Amsterdam, Netherlands
8. Academy of Music in Krakow – Poland
This Polish institution has a solid reputation in both classical and contemporary music. The tuition is much more affordable than in Western Europe, making it a great choice for international students on a budget.
Tuition Fees: €2,500–€4,000 per year
Address: Świętej Tomasza 43, 31-027 Kraków, Poland
9. Codarts University for the Arts – Netherlands
Based in Rotterdam, Codarts specializes in world music, pop, jazz, and music education. It’s also known for its international collaborations, giving students global stage access.
Tuition Fees: €7,500–€9,000 per year for non-EU students
Address: Kruisplein 26, 3012 CC Rotterdam, Netherlands
10. Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music – Hungary
Established by Franz Liszt himself and one of the best music schools in Europe to consider, this Hungarian institution is ideal for those passionate about piano and classical training. It’s located in Budapest and is rich in musical culture and history.
Tuition Fees: €2,500–€6,000 per year
Address: Liszt Ferenc tér 8, 1061 Budapest, Hungary Visit School
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Tips for Choosing Best Music Schools in Europe
When choosing from the best music schools in Europe, ask yourself:
a. What genre do I want to study (classical, jazz, contemporary)?
b. Do I prefer a performance-heavy or academic-focused program?
c. What is my budget for tuition and living?
d. Is the city culturally rich and musically active?
Also, don’t forget to consider the language of instruction. Many schools offer English-taught programs, especially at the Master’s level.
Scholarships for Music Students in Europe
Many of these best music schools in Europe listed here offer scholarships based on merit, financial need, or international student status. Some external options include:
1. Erasmus+ Scholarships
2. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
3. Chevening Scholarships (UK)
4. Country-specific cultural scholarships
Overall, make sure you check the financial aid page on each school’s website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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FAQs for Top Best Music Schools in Europe
Q1. Can I study music in Europe without knowing the local language?
Yes, some of the music programs in Europe are offered in English, especially for postgraduate students.
Q2. Are European music degrees recognized globally?
Of course. Schools like RCM, Sibelius Academy, and MDW Vienna are globally respected.
Q3. What genres do European music schools offer?
You can study classical, opera, jazz, pop, electronic, and even world music.
Q4. Is it cheaper to study music in Europe than in the US?
Yes, lots of European schools are more affordable, and some offer free tuition to international students. Check out each School’s website to get more updates on scholarships when you’re ready to apply.
Q5. How can I apply to a music school in Europe?
You can apply directly on the school’s website. Most require auditions, a music portfolio, and academic transcripts.
Final Words
Studying music in Europe is a dream for many students and for good reason some seek globally recognition.
There are lots of good music schools in Europe, we just listed here the top 10. From the historic streets of Vienna to the modern vibes of Amsterdam, the best music schools in Europe offer everything you need to turn your passion into a lifelong career.
Whether you’re looking for classical training, jazz exploration, or music production, there’s a perfect school for you to pursue your music career in a friendly environment like Europe.
Now is the perfect time to start this journey, don’t just dream, but start planning your music career today.
Good luck!
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Gloria Pen