The Lawrence Conservatory experience is grounded in the belief that truly outstanding music training integrates outstanding academic training.

Our rapidly changing world needs musicians who are smart, innovative, entrepreneurial, civic-minded, and collaborative. At Lawrence, we empower you to bring your whole self to creating your musical path. Come experience world-class musical training in an environment of support, community, and possibility.

Lawrence's academic year is divided into three 10-week terms and one (optional) two-week December term (D-term). Conservatory students benefit from an abundance of performance opportunities each term, from studio classes to large ensembles.  Students take a wide array of courses, connecting with peers and professors throughout the University and deeply benefiting from the dual benefits of a world-class Conservatory and Liberal Arts education. Explore the details of course credit per our Registrar and read one student's reflection on how to flourish in the 10-week term system.

Student writing on sheet music during Viking Bassoon Ensemble rehearsals.

Music And...

Music and academics? Music and athletics? Music and fine arts? Music Education and Music Performance? Yes, yes, yes and yes! Our signature Dual Degree Program is a testament to how deeply we value exceptional musicians who are also exceptionally good at academic pursuits. Over half of every incoming class in the Conservatory comes to pursue the 5-year Dual Degree program. This is the power of a world-class conservatory within a world-class liberal arts university. We keep your possibilities open so you can create your path.

Learn about Dual Degree
Large ensemble performs on stage

The Perfect Recipe for High Level Music Making

We have 350 students pursuing music degrees and majors. This means performance opportunities abound—like 23 major ensembles—and countless chamber and small group opportunities. We are also an all-undergraduate institution, which means you won’t compete against graduate students or be taught by them. As a residential campus, you will live in your musical community, so music-making doesn’t stop when the last class ends.

Learn about Ensembles
Students stand around a piano singing with a man playing

Core Conditioning

We're an award-winning conservatory offering diverse music programs. From classical to jazz, contemporary to composition, we equip you with the tools to excel, encourage you to explore various musical styles, and push your boundaries to become a truly versatile musician.

Student playing clarinet while faculty member provides feedback

Collaboration Is Key

For musicians today, collaboration is vitally important. At Lawrence it is at the center of everything we do. Collaborating in our world-class ensembles and chamber music groups is a given, but our students are also collaborating across musical genres, with film students, dancers, even computer scientists. Student-faculty collaboration is also central to who we are. Imagine the power of making music with some of the top professional musicians in the country. At Lawrence, you can.

Learn About Faculty
Irene Strohbeen points to the screen of a laptop as she works with junior Duval Bingham during an Innovation & Entrepreneurship class, In Pursuit of Innovation.

Entrepreneurial Mindset

Apply a creative spirit to building the business of you. Our courses in Innovation and Entrepreneurship will help you build a foundation for pursuing your musical life. These are core skills for today’s world-changing musicians.

Explore Courses
Students playing string instruments

Culture of Creativity

Lawrence empowers musicians to dream big and innovate. Hone your skills in composition, improvisation, and songwriting. Redefine performances and push the boundaries of music. Experience the magic of creation at Lawrence.

Jazz musicians play in a gynasium, with men in green jumpsuites in the background.

A Spirit of Civic Engagement

Music can have a profound positive impact on our society. At Lawrence, civic engagement is core to who we are. Our Music for All program connects students with social service organizations throughout our community and across the country. Our musicians partner with homeless shelters, mental health organizations, Boys and Girls Clubs, public schools, El Sistema orchestras, The New York Jazz Academy, Carnegie Hall, Play on Philly, The Merit School of Music, Latino Arts... the list goes on and on.

Explore Music for All
Audio console with multi-colored buttons and screens.

Elevate Your Music

When viewed as critical music skills, Production and Tech help elevate your music. Our studios and courses offer hands-on experience in audio, video, and electronic music production. Explore the future of music and let technology enhance your creative journey.