India has a rich musical heritage, and several prestigious institutions offer specialized training in classical, contemporary, and film music. Below is a detailed analysis of the top 10 music colleges in India (2025), including courses, fees, eligibility, and specializations.
1. Rabindra Bharati University (Kolkata, West Bengal)
Rabindra Bharati University (RBU) in Kolkata ranks among the top music colleges in India, renowned as a premier institution for music education specializing in Hindustani classical, Carnatic, Rabindra Sangeet (Tagore’s music), and instrumental traditions. It offers comprehensive B.Mus, M.Mus, and PhD programs, combining rigorous training in vocal and instrumental music (sitar, tabla, esraj, etc.). With some of the most competitive music colleges in India 2025 – state-of-the-art facilities, and a faculty of renowned musicians, RBU brings up both traditional and contemporary approaches. Its Kolkata location provides unmatched cultural exposure, while regular workshops and performances enhance practical learning, making it a standout choice among Indian music colleges with fees that offer quality education. This hub for Tagorean and classical music consistently produces acclaimed artists and scholars, solidifying its legacy as one of the best institutes for Western and Indian music in India and a leader in music diploma courses in India. For aspiring musicians seeking top music production schools in India with strong traditional foundations, RBU remains a first-choice institution among music colleges with industry placements.
- Courses Offered:
- Bachelor of Music (B.Mus) – Hindustani, Carnatic, Rabindra Sangeet
- Master of Music (M.Mus) – Classical, Instrumental, Vocal
- PhD in Music
- Fees: ₹10,000 – ₹50,000 per year
- Eligibility: 10+2 (for UG), Bachelor’s degree (for PG), Entrance Exam
- Specializations: Classical Vocal, Instrumental (Sitar, Tabla), Rabindra Sangeet
- Key Features: Government-funded, strong focus on Indian classical music
- Address: Dwarakanath, No 6/4, PK Tagore St, Raja Katra, Singhi Bagan, Jorasanko, Kolkata, West Bengal 700007
- Website: https://www.rbu.ac.in/
2. KM Music Conservatory (Chennai, Tamil Nadu)
KM Music Conservatory (KMMC) in Chennai, founded by A.R. Rahman, stands among the best colleges for music in India, offering cutting-edge programs in Music Performance, Production, and Technology. This college blends Western classical, Indian traditions, and film scoring, with modern studios and world-class faculty. Admission requires 10+2 and auditions, ensuring its elite status among music colleges in India 2025. With fees of ₹2-5 lakhs/year and scholarships available, KMMC is a foremost choice for aspiring musicians seeking industry-ready training in vocal, instrumental, and sound engineering. As a leader in music education, it prepares students for global careers in Indian and Western music.
- Courses Offered:
- Diploma in Music Performance (Western & Indian)
- Bachelor’s in Music Production & Technology
- Certificate courses in Piano, Guitar, Vocals
- Fees: ₹2 – ₹5 lakhs per year
- Eligibility: 10+2, Audition & Interview
- Specializations: Western Classical, Film Scoring, Sound Engineering
- Key Features: Industry-oriented, state-of-the-art recording studios
- Address:19, Vinaygapuram 2nd St, MMDA, Vinayakapuram, Arumbakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600106
- Website:https://www.kmmc.in/
Recommended: Top 5 ICSE Schools in Jaipur
3. Swarnabhoomi Academy of Music (Chennai, Tamil Nadu)
Swarnabhoomi Academy of Music (SAM) in Chennai stands among the best colleges for music in India, specializing in jazz, rock, and fusion education. It offers Bachelor’s and Diploma programs with an international curriculum, blending Western and Indian contemporary music. With world-class faculty and a performance-focused approach, SAM provides exceptional training for aspiring musicians. Admission to this academy requires 10+2 qualifications and auditions, maintaining its elite status among music colleges in India 2025. With fees of ₹3-6 lakhs/year, this premier institution prepares students for global music careers, making it a top choice for contemporary music education in India.
- Courses Offered:
- Bachelor’s in Contemporary Music
- Diploma in Jazz & Rock Performance
- Fees: ₹3 – ₹6 lakhs per year
- Eligibility: 10+2, Audition
- Specializations: Jazz, Rock, Fusion, Music Production
- Key Features: International faculty, performance-based learning
- Address: NCTPL, Multi Services SEZ, Seekinankuppam Village, Cheyyur, Kodur, Tamil Nadu 603305
- Website:https://sam.org.in/
4. Calcutta School of Music (Kolkata, West Bengal)
Calcutta School of Music (CSM) in Kolkata, renowned among the best music colleges in India for Western classical training, also offers foundational programs for music production education in India. This college provides certificate courses in piano, violin, and vocal performance that serve as excellent prerequisites for music production careers. With its 1915-established legacy, CSM’s world-class faculty delivers rigorous training in musical theory and instrumentation – crucial skills for music production colleges in India. While primarily focused on classical traditions, its affordable ₹20,000/year courses make it a valuable stepping stone for aspiring producers seeking music colleges in India 2025 with strong fundamental training before specializing in production elsewhere.
- Courses Offered:
- Certificate & Diploma in Western Classical Music
- Piano, Violin, Guitar Training
- Fees: ₹20,000 – ₹1 lakh per year
- Eligibility: No strict academic requirements, Audition-based
- Specializations: Western Classical, Opera, Choral Music
- Key Features: One of India’s oldest Western music schools
- Address: 6b, Sunny Pk, Ballygunge, Kolkata, West Bengal 700019
- Website:https://www.calmusic.org/
Read More: Top 10 Schools in Kota, Rajasthan
5. Madras Music Academy (Chennai, Tamil Nadu)
Madras Music Academy in Chennai stands among the best music colleges in India for Carnatic classical training. This was established in 1928 and offers diploma and certificate courses in vocal, violin, veena, and mridangam. It is renowned for its world-class gurus and preservation of South Indian classical traditions, the academy hosts the reputable “December Music Festival”. Admission to this college requires auditions and music proficiency tests to maintain its elite status among music colleges in India. With fees ranging ₹15,000-50,000/year, it’s the premier institution for Carnatic music education in India, producing master musicians and scholars.
- Courses Proposed:
- Diploma in Carnatic Music (Vocal & Instrumental)
- Certificate Courses in Mridangam, Veena
- Fees: ₹15,000 – ₹50,000 per year
- Eligibility: Basic knowledge of Carnatic music, Entrance Test
- Specializations: Carnatic Vocal, Veena, Violin
- Key Features: Premier institution for Carnatic music
- Address: New No. 168 (Old No.306), T.T.K. Road, Chennai – 600 014.
- Website:https://www.musicacademymadras.in/
6. Lorraine Music Academy
Lorraine Music Academy in Goa ranks among the best music colleges in India for contemporary music education. This college specializes in electronic music production, DJing, and sound design, offering cutting-edge diploma programs. With its beachside campus and international faculty, the academy provides hands-on training using modern equipment. Admission requires auditions, making it a selective choice among music colleges in India. With fees around ₹50,000-2 lakhs/year, it’s a premier institution for aspiring electronic music producers and DJs, combining Goa’s vibrant music scene with professional training.
- Courses Offered:
- Diploma in Western Vocals & Instruments
- Short-term courses in DJing, Music Production
- Fees: ₹50,000 – ₹2 lakhs per year
- Eligibility: 10+2, Audition
- Specializations: Electronic Music, DJing, Sound Design
- Key Features: Beachside campus, international collaborations
- Address: Lorraine Music Academy, DLF Cyber City, Gurgaon – 122002
- Website:https://lorrainemusicacademy.com/
Also Read: Top 10 Music Schools in India
7. Shankar Mahadevan Academy
Shankar Mahadevan Academy stands out among the best singing colleges in India, offering world-class online music education for aspiring vocalists. As one of the top music colleges in India for flexible learning, it specializes in Bollywood singing, Carnatic, and Hindustani classical training, along with instrumental courses in guitar and keyboard. This pioneering music education platform was founded by the legendary playback singer, and provides personalized mentorship through its innovative digital learning system, making it convenient to students globally. Unlike traditional singing colleges in India, it requires no formal qualifications, removing obstacles for passionate learners. With affordable fees (₹5,000-50,000 per course), it’s become a preferred choice among music colleges in India for those seeking professional training at their own pace. The academy’s comprehensive curriculum covers everything from basic voice training to advanced performance techniques, establishing it as a leader in digital music education in India. Whether you’re preparing for playback singing or classical performances, this institution offers quality training that rivals many physical singing colleges in India, with the added convenience of learning from anywhere.
- Courses Offered:
- Online Certificate Courses in Bollywood, Carnatic, Hindustani Music
- Guitar, Keyboard, Singing Lessons
- Fees: ₹5,000 – ₹50,000 per course
- Eligibility: No formal requirements
- Specializations: Bollywood Singing, Indian Classical, Western Pop
- Key Features: Flexible online learning, mentorship by Shankar Mahadevan
- Address: Ground Floor, 143, Richmond Rd Bangalore, Karnataka, INDIA
- Website:https://www.shankarmahadevanacademy.org/
8. Asian Academy of Film & Television (AAFT, Noida)
Asian Academy of Film & Television (AAFT) in Noida stands among the premier institutions for bachelor of music colleges in India, specializing in sound engineering, film scoring, and music production. While primarily known as one of the best music production colleges in India, its comprehensive diploma and certificate programs in audio technology, DJing, and music composition provide strong foundations for aspiring music professionals. The institute features industry-standard equipment and a practical-focused curriculum, making it a top choice among music colleges in India. With 10+2 eligibility and fees ranging ₹1-3 lakhs/year, AAFT offers exceptional hands-on training in recording, mixing, and live sound production. Though not a traditional bachelor of music program, its specialized courses in music production and sound design serve as excellent alternatives for students targeting careers in Bollywood and media industries. As a leading film and music education hub, AAFT bridges the gap between technical sound expertise and creative musical expression, complementing the offerings of conventional bachelor of music colleges in India. Its industry-aligned approach prepares students for diverse roles in the growing music and entertainment landscape.
- Courses Offered:
- Diploma in Sound Engineering & Music Production
- Short-term DJ & Electronic Music courses
- Fees: ₹1 – ₹3 lakhs per year
- Eligibility: 10+2
- Specializations: Sound Mixing, Film Scoring, DJing
- Address :FC 14/15, Film City, Sector 16A, Noida, Uttar Pradesh 201301
- Website:https://aaft.com/
Check Out: Top 5 ICSE Schools in Salt Lake, Kolkata
9. The True School of Music (Mumbai, Maharashtra)
The True School of Music in Mumbai stands among the best singing colleges in India while excelling as a premier contemporary music college offering comprehensive Bachelor’s and Diploma programs. This institute provides specialized training not only in jazz, electronic, and fusion music but also in vocal performance and singing techniques, making it a standout choice among singing colleges in India. Featuring industry-standard recording studios and renowned international faculty, the school offers exceptional training for aspiring vocalists, performers, and music producers. With 10+2 eligibility and rigorous audition-based admissions, it maintains high standards among music colleges in India. The ₹3-7 lakhs/year fee structure supports its hands-on, industry-focused curriculum that combines vocal training with music production and business skills. Whether students desire to be professional singers, music producers, or entrepreneurs, this Mumbai-based institution provides world-class training in India’s entertainment capital, bridging the gap between traditional singing colleges and modern music education. Its unique blend of vocal arts and contemporary music technology makes it ideal for versatile artists preparing for global music careers.
- Courses Offered:
- Bachelor’s in Music Performance & Production
- Diploma in DJ & Electronic Music Production
- Fees: ₹3 – ₹7 lakhs per year
- Eligibility: 10+2, Audition
- Specializations: Jazz, Electronic, Music Business
- Key Features: Industry connections, performance opportunities
- Address: Vijaybhoomi University Performance Wing, Jambrung, Maharashtra 410201
- Website:https://trueschool.in/
10. Christ University (Bangalore)
Christ University in Bangalore firmly establishes itself among the top music colleges in India, offering world-class BA and MA programs in Performing Arts (Music) that set the benchmark for music education in India 2025. As one of the best music colleges in India, it provides an exceptional dual focus on Western classical traditions and Indian classical music, along with specialized training in choral music, contemporary styles, and performance arts. The university’s globally-inspired curriculum, enriched with international collaborations and masterclasses, combines with its rigorous audition-based admissions (requiring 10+2 eligibility for UG courses) to maintain its position as a premier music university. With fees ranging ₹1-3 lakhs/year, this institution in India’s tech capital offers outstanding value, nurturing the next generation of performers, composers, and music scholars through its unique blend of academic rigor and creative excellence. Christ University’s holistic approach to music education – balancing traditional pedagogy with modern musical techniques – solidifies its reputation among the top music colleges in India for students seeking comprehensive training and global opportunities in the evolving music industry.
- Courses Offered:
- BA in Performing Arts (Music)
- MA in Music
- Fees: ₹1 – ₹3 lakhs per year
- Eligibility: 10+2 (for UG), Bachelor’s (for PG), Audition
- Specializations: Western & Indian Classical, Choir Music
- Key Features: Liberal arts approach, global exposure
- Address: Hosur Road Bangalore 4819
- Website:https://christuniversity.in/
Comparison Table
| College | Courses Offered | Fees (Annual) | Eligibility | Specializations | Key Highlights |
| Rabindra Bharati University | B.Mus, M.Mus, PhD | ₹10K – ₹50K | 10+2 + Entrance | Indian Classical, Rabindra Sangeet | Government-funded, strong classical focus |
| KM Music Conservatory | Diploma, Bachelor’s | ₹2L – ₹5L | Audition | Western, Film Scoring | A.R. Rahman’s institute, high-tech studios |
| Swarnabhoomi Academy | Bachelor’s, Diploma | ₹3L – ₹6L | Audition | Jazz, Rock, Fusion | International faculty, performance-based |
| Calcutta School of Music | Certificates, Diplomas | ₹20K – ₹1L | Audition | Western Classical | Oldest Western music school |
| Madras Music Academy | Diploma, Certificates | ₹15K – ₹50K | Entrance Test | Carnatic Music | Premier Carnatic institution |
| Lorraine Music Academy | Diploma, Short-term | ₹50K – ₹2L | Audition | Electronic, DJing | Goa campus, global exposure |
| Shankar Mahadevan Academy | Online Courses | ₹5K – ₹50K | None | Bollywood, Classical | Flexible online learning |
| AAFT (Noida) | Diploma in Sound Engg. | ₹1L – ₹3L | 10+2 | Film Scoring, DJing | Media industry focus |
| True School of Music | Bachelor’s, Diploma | ₹3L – ₹7L | Audition | Jazz, Electronic | Industry connections |
| Christ University | BA, MA in Music | ₹1L – ₹3L | Audition | Western & Indian | Liberal arts approach |
Conclusion
Choosing the right music college depends on your specialization (classical, contemporary, or film music), budget, and career goals. KM Music Conservatory and True School of Music are ideal for contemporary and production courses, while Rabindra Bharati University and Madras Music Academy excel in classical training. Online learners may prefer Shankar Mahadevan Academy, while those interested in film scoring can consider AAFT.
FAQs
1. Which is the best music college in India for classical music?
Rabindra Bharati University (Hindustani/Carnatic) and Madras Music Academy (Carnatic) are the top choices.
2. What is the fee structure for KM Music Conservatory?
Fees range from ₹2 – ₹5 lakhs per year, depending on the course.
3. Can I learn music online in India?
Yes, Shankar Mahadevan Academy offers structured online courses.
4. Which college is best for film music production?
KM Music Conservatory, AAFT, and True School of Music are great options.
5. Is an entrance exam required for music colleges?
Most reputed colleges (like Rabindra Bharati, and Christ University) require auditions or entrance tests.
6. Which college is best for Western music in India?
Calcutta School of Music, KM Conservatory, and Swarnabhoomi Academy focus on Western music.
7. What is the duration of a music diploma course?
Typically 1–2 years, depending on the institution.
8. Are scholarships available for music students?
Some colleges (like KM Conservatory) offer merit-based scholarships.
9. Can I pursue a PhD in Music in India?
Yes, Rabindra Bharati University and other central universities offer PhD programs.
10. Which college is best for electronic music and DJing?
Lorraine Music Academy (Goa) and True School of Music (Mumbai) specialize in electronic music.
