1. Calcutta School of Music
Founded in 1915, the Calcutta School of Music is one of India’s oldest and most prestigious music institutions, renowned as the best music school in India. Specializing in Western classical music, jazz, and contemporary music, the school offers professional training in vocals, piano, violin, and various other instruments. With dedicated departments for music theory and music production, it has a rich legacy of nurturing talented musicians, producing renowned artists over the years. The school provides diploma and certification courses for beginners and advanced learners, making it a top choice for formal music education in Kolkata. Its well-experienced faculty and structured curriculum ensure high-quality training, solidifying its reputation as the best music school in India for aspiring musicians.
- Courses: Western Classical, Jazz, Rock & Pop
- Eligibility: No formal eligibility; beginners and professionals can apply
- Fees: Varies by course
- Specialisation: Western classical and contemporary music
- Address: 6B Sunny Park, Kolkata-700019, West Bengal, INDIA.
- website: https://www.calmusic.org/
2. Prayag Sangeet Samiti, Allahabad
Established in 1926, Prayag Sangeet Samiti stands tall among the famous music institutes in India, renowned as a premier institution for Hindustani classical music. Offering certification, diploma, and degree courses in both vocal and instrumental music, it specializes in tabla, sitar, and harmonium, along with other traditional Indian instruments. With a structured curriculum and university affiliations, this prestigious academy provides recognized degrees, making it a top destination for authentic Indian classical music education. The institution further elevates India’s musical heritage by hosting prestigious music examinations and festivals, actively promoting Indian classical music worldwide.
- Courses: Hindustani Classical Music, Vocal, Instrumental
- Eligibility: Open to all age groups, entrance exam for advanced levels
- Fees: Affordable, varies by course
- Specialisation: Hindustani Classical Music
- Address: 12 C, Kamla Nehru Road, Civil Lines, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh 211001
- website: https://prayagsangeetsamiti.in/
3. KM Music Conservatory
Founded by the legendary A.R. Rahman, KM Music Conservatory ranks among the top music schools in India, offering world-class training in Western classical music, Hindustani classical music, music technology, and audio engineering. Renowned for its global-standard curriculum, the institution provides diploma, undergraduate, and postgraduate programs, attracting aspiring musicians nationwide. What sets KM Music Conservatory apart is its exceptional faculty, featuring Indian and international music professionals, and its state-of-the-art infrastructure, including a professional recording studio and performance spaces. The academy’s unique blend of classical and contemporary training equips students with the skills needed for successful global music careers.
- Courses: Western Music, Hindustani Music, Audio Engineering
- Eligibility: Audition-based admission
- Fees: Moderate to high
- Specialisation: Western classical, music production
- Address: 19 Vinayagapuram 2nd Street,MMDA Colony, Arumbakkam,Chennai 600106,Tamil Nadu, India.
- website: https://www.kmmc.in/
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4. Swarnabhoomi Academy of Music
Swarnabhoomi Academy of Music (SAM) stands tall among the best music academies in India, specializing in contemporary music education. Renowned for its world-class programs in jazz, rock, pop, and music production, SAM offers aspiring musicians an internationally benchmarked curriculum. What sets SAM apart is its global faculty of accomplished musicians and its cutting-edge music technology infrastructure. The academy emphasizes live performance, composition, and improvisation, ensuring students receive holistic training in modern music. As one of the top music schools in India, SAM fosters industry-ready talent through its hands-on, practical approach.
- Courses: Contemporary Music, Indian Music
- Eligibility: 10+2 and audition required
- Fees: Premium pricing
- Specialisation: Contemporary music, performance, and production
- Address: Swarnabhoomi Academy of MusicNCTPL, Multi Services SEZ,Seekinankuppam Village,Koovathur Way, Cheyyur Taluk,Kancheepuram District,Tamil Nadu – 603 305, India.
- website:https://sam.org.in/
5. Madras Music Academy
Established in 1928, Madras Music Academy stands as one of the best singing classes in India and a premier institution for Carnatic music education. Renowned for organizing the iconic December Music Season – the world’s largest Carnatic music festival – the academy attracts top Carnatic musicians and students globally. Specializing in vocal and instrumental Carnatic music, the academy offers certificate and diploma courses, making it a top choice for traditional Indian music training. With its rich heritage and expert faculty, it provides authentic South Indian classical music education, from beginner to advanced levels.
- Courses: Carnatic Vocal, Instrumental
- Eligibility: Open to all, based on musical knowledge
- Fees: Nominal
- Specialisation: Carnatic music
- Address: 15, Rajarathinam Main Rd, Ullagaram, Madipakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600091
- Website: https://www.musicacademymadras.in/
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6. Delhi School of Music
The Delhi School of Music stands out among music production schools in India as a premier institution specializing in Western classical music, offering rigorous training in piano, violin, guitar, and voice. While its core focus is classical performance, the school bridges traditional and modern music education with internationally recognized certifications from Trinity College London and ABRSM, appealing to students seeking a strong theoretical foundation for music production careers.
Though not a dedicated music production school, its structured programs, experienced faculty, and state-of-the-art practice facilities provide a robust groundwork for aspiring producers. Students benefit from concert opportunities and exposure to acoustic mastery, which complements technical skills needed in sound engineering and arrangement—key components of music production courses in India.
- Courses: Western Classical, Instrumental
- Eligibility: Beginners to advanced
- Fees: Moderate
- Specialisation: Western classical, piano, violin
- Address:8,Nyaya Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi.
- Website: https://www.delhimusicsociety.net/dsm.asp
7. Lorraine Music Academy
Lorraine Music Academy ranks among the top music institutes in India for Western classical training, offering comprehensive programs in piano, guitar, violin, and voice. Catering to beginners and advanced musicians, the academy emphasizes music education, performance, and composition, ensuring a holistic musical development that rivals the best music schools in India.What sets Lorraine apart is its Trinity College London certification preparation, aligning its curriculum with global music standards—a hallmark of premier music institutes. While specializing in Western classical, its focus on theory, technique, and creativity provides a strong foundation for diverse musical pursuits, from orchestral performance to contemporary composition.
- Courses: Western Music, Contemporary Music
- Eligibility: Open for all age groups
- Fees: Moderate to high
- Specialisation: Western classical and contemporary music
- Address: Music school Gurugram, Haryana
- Website: https://lorrainemusicacademy.com/contact/
8. Shankar Mahadevan Academy
Shankar Mahadevan Academy, founded by the legendary Shankar Mahadevan, stands tall among the best music academies in India, offering world-class training in Hindustani and Carnatic classical music. What sets this premier institution apart is its unique blend of traditional and contemporary music education, including specialized programs in Bollywood playback singing and music production – making it a top choice for aspiring musicians across genres. The academy’s innovative online learning platform provides structured courses with personalized mentorship from expert faculty, allowing students worldwide to access India’s finest music education. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced learner, the academy’s comprehensive curriculum and flexible learning options cater to all levels, rivaling other top music schools in India like KM Music Conservatory and Swarnabhoomi Academy.
- Courses: Hindustani, Carnatic, Bollywood Music
- Eligibility: Open for all age groups
- Fees: Moderate
- Specialisation: Online music training in Indian music
- Address: 3rd Floor, Phoenix Towers, Reliaable, 16, 16/1, Museum Rd, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001
- Website:https://www.shankarmahadevanacademy.org/SMANirvana/?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwtJ6_BhDWARIsAGanmKc4BBOUDF_Z_hMLL7yNeSY4L1twNJ84PmZHwmEWyUmERbv6xKKCyWAaApQKEALw_wcB
9. Asian Academy of Film and Television
The Asian Academy of Film and Television (AAFT) ranks among the top institutions to learn music in India, specializing in music composition, sound engineering, and film music production. As part of its School of Performing Arts, AAFT offers cutting-edge programs designed for aspiring composers, producers, and sound designers, blending traditional and contemporary music education.What sets AAFT apart is its state-of-the-art infrastructure, including professional recording studios, music production labs, and collaborations with industry experts—making it a premier destination for film scoring, TV music, and digital platform soundtracks. Students gain hands-on training in tools like Pro Tools, Ableton Live, and FL Studio, alongside mastering instruments like tabla, piano, and guitar
- Courses: Music Production, Sound Engineering
- Eligibility: 10+2
- Fees: Premium pricing
- Specialisation: Music production, film scoring
- Address: FC 14/15, Film City, Sector 16A, Noida, Uttar Pradesh 201301
- Website:https://aaft.com/
10. The True School of Music
The True School of Music in Mumbai stands out among affordable music schools in India, offering world-class training in contemporary music education—from performance and production to DJing and sound engineering. While maintaining industry-leading standards, the school provides cost-effective programs compared to international institutions, making high-quality music education accessible to Indian students. With an international faculty, state-of-the-art facilities (including recording studios and performance spaces), and hands-on training, True School bridges the gap between affordability and excellence. Its industry tie-ups and career-focused curriculum—covering electronic music, Bollywood scoring, and live sound engineering—ensure students gain practical skills without the premium price tag of overseas schools.
- Courses: Contemporary Music, Music Production
- Eligibility: 10+2 and audition required
- Fees: High
- Specialisation: Contemporary music, sound design
- Address: Vijaybhoomi University Performance Wing, Jambrung, Maharashtra 410201
- Website: https://trueschool.in/
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Comparison Table: Best Music Schools in India
| School Name | Course | Eligibility | Fees | Specialisation |
| Calcutta School of Music | Western Classical, Jazz | Open for all | Varies | Western Classical |
| Prayag Sangeet Samiti | Hindustani Classical | Open for all | Affordable | Hindustani Classical |
| KM Music Conservatory | Western, Hindustani | Audition-based | High | Western Classical |
| Swarnabhoomi Academy | Contemporary Music | 10+2, Audition | High | Contemporary Music |
| Madras Music Academy | Carnatic Vocal, Instrumental | Open | Nominal | Carnatic Music |
| Delhi School of Music | Western Classical | Open | Moderate | Piano, Violin |
| Lorraine Music Academy | Western, Contemporary | Open | High | Contemporary Music |
| Shankar Mahadevan Academy | Hindustani, Bollywood | Open | Moderate | Online Indian Music |
| Asian Academy of Film & Television | Music Production | 10+2 | High | Film Scoring |
| The True School of Music | Contemporary, Production | 10+2, Audition | High | Contemporary Music |
Conclusion
Choosing the right music school depends on your musical interests, budget, and career goals. If you are inclined towards classical music, institutions like Prayag Sangeet Samiti and Madras Music Academy are ideal. For contemporary and Western music enthusiasts, KM Music Conservatory and The True School of Music offer excellent programs. Aspiring music producers can opt for schools like Asian Academy of Film and Television or Swarnabhoomi Academy of Music. Ensure to check the eligibility criteria, fees, and specializations before applying.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Which is the best music school in India for Western classical music?
A: KM Music Conservatory and the Delhi School of Music are excellent choices for Western classical training.
Q2: What is the eligibility for joining a music school in India?
A: Eligibility varies; some schools require auditions, while others accept students of all levels.
Q3: Can I learn music online from any of these schools?
A: Yes, Shankar Mahadevan Academy offers online music training.
Q4: Which school is best for Hindustani classical music?
A: Prayag Sangeet Samiti and Shankar Mahadevan Academy are great options.
Q5: What are the fees for music courses in India?
A: Fees vary from affordable (e.g., Prayag Sangeet Samiti) to high (e.g., Swarnabhoomi Academy of Music).
Q6: Do these music schools provide certification?
A: Yes, most of them offer recognized diplomas and certifications.
Q7: What are the job prospects after completing a course from these music schools?
A: Graduates can pursue careers as musicians, composers, music producers, or educators.
Q8: Do music schools in India offer scholarships?
A: Some schools, like KM Music Conservatory, offer scholarships based on talent.
Q9: Can I pursue a degree in music from these schools?
A: Yes, some schools offer degree programs in collaboration with universities.
Q10: How can I apply to these schools?
A: You can visit their official websites, check eligibility, and apply online or through an entrance audition.
