The Colburn Conservatory of Music Overview

The Colburn Conservatory of Music, located in Los Angeles, California, is a highly selective institution offering world-class training in classical music. Established as part of the broader Colburn School, the Conservatory provides a rigorous education focused on professional-level performance. With a mission to develop the next generation of elite classical musicians, the Conservatory offers personalized instruction, full-tuition scholarships to all admitted students, and unparalleled performance opportunities in the heart of a major cultural hub.

The Colburn Conservatory of Music Offered Programs

  • Bachelor of Music
  • Master of Music
  • Performance Diploma
  • Artist Diploma
  • Conservatory Diploma (for students not seeking a degree)
  • Orchestral Instruments
  • Piano Performance
  • Voice and Opera
  • Collaborative Piano
  • Chamber Music

The Colburn Conservatory of Music Tuition Fees

Program TypeAnnual Tuition Fee (USD)
All Degree ProgramsFull-tuition scholarships provided to all admitted students
Room and Board (on-campus housing and meals)Approximately 15,000 – 18,000

Note: While tuition is fully covered, students may incur additional costs such as housing, meals, and personal expenses

The Colburn Conservatory of Music Required Documents and Admission Requirements

  • Completed online application
  • Pre-screening video audition (if required by department)
  • Final audition (live or video)
  • Academic transcripts
  • Personal statement
  • Artistic resume or CV
  • Two or more letters of recommendation
  • English proficiency test (TOEFL or IELTS) for non-native speakers
  • Interview (invited applicants only)
  • Application fee payment

The Colburn Conservatory of Music Deadlines

Application PhaseDeadline
Application OpensSeptember
Application DeadlineDecember 1
Pre-screening SubmissionDecember 1
Audition InvitationsJanuary
Live AuditionsFebruary – March
Admission DecisionsApril
Enrollment DeadlineMay
OrientationAugust
Semester StartLate August

The Colburn Conservatory of Music Scholarships Offerings

  • Full-tuition scholarships for all admitted students
  • Merit-based housing and living stipends
  • Need-based financial assistance (limited)
  • Assistantships or work-study for eligible students
  • Support for competition and travel expenses (case-by-case basis)

The Colburn Conservatory of Music Rankings

Ranking TypePosition
National Music Conservatories (U.S.)Top 10
Global Music InstitutionsRecognized among elite conservatories
Specialized Music EducationHighly prestigious

The Colburn Conservatory of Music Acceptance Rate

The Colburn Conservatory of Music has an extremely competitive acceptance rate of approximately 5–7%. Admission is based primarily on artistic excellence, potential, and audition performance.

The Colburn Conservatory of Music Student Campus Life

Students at Colburn enjoy a tight-knit and artistically driven community. Campus life is centered around performance, rehearsal, and intensive study. The Conservatory offers ample practice rooms, performance halls, and professional development workshops.
Accommodation options include:

  • On-campus residence hall (Colburn Residence) with furnished rooms, dining services, and practice spaces
  • Limited availability off-campus housing options with support from student affairs
    The Conservatory also offers wellness programs, career counseling, and collaborations with local arts organizations.

The Colburn Conservatory of Music Cost of Living

Although tuition is fully covered, students should plan for living expenses in Los Angeles, which can be relatively high. On-campus housing offers a more affordable and convenient option. Students may seek outside support or part-time work (if eligible) for personal expenses.

Expense CategoryEstimated Annual Cost (USD)
On-campus Housing10,000 – 13,000
Meal Plan5,000 – 6,000
Transportation1,000 – 1,500
Personal Expenses2,000 – 3,000
Health Insurance2,000 – 2,500
Books and Supplies500 – 1,000

The Colburn Conservatory of Music Contact Informations

  • Phone Number: +1 213 621 2200
  • Email Address: conservatory@colburnschool.edu
  • Address: 200 South Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States
  • Website: colburnschool.edu

The Colburn Conservatory of Music Online Application

Applicants must apply through the Colburn Conservatory’s dedicated online portal. The application requires uploading pre-screening materials, academic documents, and recommendation letters. Once submitted, applicants may be invited for live auditions and interviews. The portal also allows applicants to track status updates, receive notifications, and access additional admissions information.