What do you get when you combine a world-class conservatory of music with a world-class college of liberal arts? A university uniquely designed to train the innovative and adaptable musicians of the future.


The Lawrence Conservatory prepares you for the opportunities and challenges of our rapidly-changing world. With four degree options, integrate intellectual virtuosity with musical virtuosity in a supportive, creative community that will empower you to find your unique musical path. 

Lawrence's award-winning ensembles deliver more than 40 performances throughout the academic year. Most events are offered admission-free and many are delivered by webcast. Browse our schedules of live and webcast-delivered performances.

A 150 celebration banner hangs on a light pole on the Lawrence campus.

Celebrating 150 years!


This is a special year for our community as we are celebrating 150 years of both the Lawrence University Conservatory of Music and the Lawrence Community Music School.

The Conservatory's Mission is to...

Prepare musicians to create a more thoughtful, meaningful, and beautiful world within:

  •  a motivated community that cultivates artistry and excellence through rigorous training,
  • a diverse community that fosters intellectual growth through critical inquiry and scholarship
  • a creative community that connects passion for music to social engagement and innovative thinking

The Conservatory's Vision is...

Lawrence University Conservatory of Music: Inspiring performance, engaging intellect, energizing passion

Conservatory Areas of Study

Interested in the college? Explore the College.

Horn player performing at the Viking Room

Beyond Lawrence

There's never been a more exciting time to be a musician in this world than right now. We're really looking at how your musical life and your musical dreams can manifest through entrepreneurial practice. Lawrence's students have the opportunity to actually lead change in our industry as they go out into the world beyond.

Mariachi Ensemble plays outside the Banta Bowl during the President's Tailgate

Lawrence Conservatory Experience


Powerful preparation for a musical life. That’s our promise to you. From technique to performance, you’ll experience a culture of creativity that grounds you in core musicianship while letting your musical imagination take flight.

The Lawrence Symphony Orchestra rehearses for Fred Sturm Jazz Celebration Weekend

Award-winning ensembles


Whether it’s a sweeping orchestral arrangement from a concert hall, a mariachi halftime show, or an outdoor jazz trio, our ensembles offer you so many opportunities to shine on stages large and small.

John Holiday works with a student at Lawrence Conservatory of Music

Renowned Faculty


Our Conservatory faculty are musicians who are at the top of their craft. You’ll learn from them as mentors—and play with them as colleagues.

Student playing a saxophone on stage

Degree Options

Score your own musical journey. Choose from a Bachelor of Music, a Bachelor of Arts in Music, the popular Double Degree that grants a Bachelor of Music and a Bachelor of Arts, and the Bachelor of Musical Arts. Our four degree options offer you the flexibility to ensure your education suits your individual path.

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Major Ensembles

Put the perform in performing arts with our ensembles, from soaring symphonies to funky jazz.

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Downbeat Awards for Jazz Ensemble

Lawrence's musicians have been consistently recognized by the prestigious Downbeat Awards.

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Student to Faculty Ratio

Small class sizes mean big opportunities to pursue your passions.

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