Explore The 12 Best Music Schools In Canada: Top Programs, Fees, and More!

Music, in general, has the power to change a person's feelings in a matter of minutes. That's how deep the impact is. The study of music, performing arts, composition, and theory are all fields that are challenging but equally rewarding. In addition to having some excellent options for education, there are also a number of music schools in Canada that offer a wide range of music programs. So, if you're keen on pursuing music and joining the leagues of legendary artists, keep reading to learn more about the top 12 music schools in Canada!

12 Best Music Schools In Canada

Did you know that students who take part in music courses in high school are more likely to have a higher GPA than students who don't? That's super interesting, right? Another study revealed that participation in music and musical courses can lead to an increase in collaboration and problem-solving skills & can also promote cultural awareness! Music schools in Canada are known to offer a number of courses to choose from in any music field you like. Mentioned below are some of the top music schools in Canada, the average fees, and the top courses.

1. Acadia University School of Music

Address: Acadia University 15 University Avenue Wolfville, Nova Scotia B4P 2R6 Canada
Top Courses: Music through the Ages, Music and the Mind, Applied Lessons, Playing and Hearing Music, and Comprehensive Keyboard.
Average Tuition Fee: $20,947 per year
Notable Alumni: Michael Clarke, Heather Rankin, Joanne Kelly.
QS Ranking: 1069
Acceptance Rate: 60-70%

Located in Nova Scotia, Acadia University's School of Music offers a comprehensive music education program known for its focus on individualized attention, diverse performance opportunities, and a strong sense of community among students and faculty.

2. Humber College Faculty of Media and Creative Arts

Address: 205 Humber College Blvd, Etobicoke, ON M9W 5L7, Canada
Top Courses: Music Business, Music Composition, Bachelor of Music, Introduction to Commercial Jazz Music, Community Music. 
Average Tuition Fee: $19000 per year
Notable Alumni: Adam Copeland, Giacomo Gianniotti, Darren Barrett
QS Ranking: 525
Acceptance Rate: 70%

One of the biggest perks of studying at Humber College, which is one of the best music schools in Canada, is the amount of global opportunities students can find. Students studying at this particular music institute in Canada will have access to a variety of different fields, including recording technology and entrepreneurship with performance, production, songwriting, and composition in jazz, pop, R&B, Latin, and world music. 

3. Victoria Conservatory of Music 

Address: 900 Johnson St, Victoria, BC V8V 3N4, Canada
Top Courses: Music Therapy, Music Technology and Creativity, Early Childhood Music.
Average Tuition Fee: $3,430 per year
Notable Alumni: Patricia Au, Nikki Chooi, Timothy Chooi, Jamie Laval
QS Ranking: 322
Acceptance Rate: NA

As one of the top music schools in Canada, the Victoria Conservatory of Music is a highly advanced school for music. This not-for-profit organization, founded in 1964, offers a wide range of music studies. In addition, students studying here get the chance to work with professional coaches and mentors who have worked with some of the biggest music companies in the world. 

4. University of Toronto Faculty of Music

Address: 80 Queens Park, Toronto, ON M5S 2C5, Canada
Top Courses: Music Technology and Digital Media, Music and Culture
Average Tuition Fee: $39,860 per year
Notable Alumni: Jacques Abram, Robert Aitken, Michael Patrick Albano
QS Ranking: 21
Acceptance Rate: 43%

The University of Toronto Faculty of Music is internationally known for being one of the best music schools in Canada. Students enrolled with this university graduate with excellence in fields such as music creation, performance, education, and research. With a number of valuable resources and high standards of education, the University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine is one of the best music colleges in Canada. 

5. Queen's School of Music

Address: 39 Bader Lane Harrison LeCaine Hall Kingston, ON K7L 3N6 Canada
Top Courses: BA in Music Education, Music Performance 
Average Tuition Fee: $8,012-$15,166 per year
Notable Alumni: Salman Ahmed, band Junoon, Benny Andrews
QS Ranking: 209
Acceptance Rate: 20%

If you're looking for a place that perfectly blends technical production, administration, scholarships, and performance, then the Queen's School of Medicine is the place for you. At this school, students will have the chance to learn core subjects in the music field, such as theory, musicology, musicianship, and so on. Due to the expert-led faculty and vibrant environment of the university, it is one of the best music schools in Canada to consider.

6. University of Western Ontario Don Wright Faculty of Music

Address: Perth Dr, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
Top Courses: Music Research and Composition, Music Performance, Music Education
Average Tuition Fee: $38,692 to $52,554
Notable Alumni: Gwyn Beynon, Lucia Cervoni, Cameron Porter
QS Ranking: 114
Acceptance Rate: 63%

Another excellent addition to our list of the best music schools in Canada is the University of Western Ontario Don Wright Faculty of Music. Founded in 1968, the university has three main departments. In addition to providing quality education, this is one of the best music schools in Ontario for performing opportunities and instructions. There are also a number of programs for students to choose from. 

7. University of British Columbia School of Music

Address: 6361 Memorial Rd, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z2, Canada
Top Courses: Principles of Musical Form, Diatonic Harmony and Voice Leading, Intensive Tonal Theory and Form I, II
Average Tuition Fee: $38,942 per year
Notable Alumni: Ben Heppner, Jocelyn Morlock, Cris Derksen
QS Ranking: 34
Acceptance Rate: 52%

When discussing the best music schools in Canada, the UBC School of Music is definitely worth a royal mention. This school is one of the oldest and largest in Canada. Students enrolled at UBC have the opportunity to perform in various musical genres, conduct important research, and develop new technologies in the world of music. Additional programs at this music institute in Canada include music history, technology, and solo and ensemble performance courses. 

Learn about one of the top music schools in the world, the Royal College of Music is world-famous for its rigorous training to help you sharpen your musical talent.

8. Royal Conservatory of Music Glenn Gould School

Address: 273 Bloor Street West Toronto, Ontario MS5 1W2
Top Courses: Artist Diploma Program (ADP), Bachelor of Music; Performance (Honors)
Average Tuition Fee: $33,755 per year
Notable Alumni: Annabelle Meare, Benjamin Bowman, Britton Riley
QS Ranking: NA
Acceptance Rate: NA

Another world-class music institute in Canada is the Royal Conservatory of Music Canada. This particular school offers some of the best programs in music education and primarily focuses on developing human potential. It is definitely one of the best music schools in Canada for a comprehensive education in music and related fields. 

9. McMaster University, Hamilton

Address: 1280 Main St W, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada
Top Courses: Honors Music, Psychology of Music, Orchestration and Arranging, Diploma in Music Performance
Average Tuition Fee: $43,000 per year
Notable Alumni: Roberta Bondar, John Candy, Eugene Levy
QS Ranking: 189
Acceptance Rate: 59%

McMaster University is a public research-based university in Canada. Its programs are some of the best in the country and are designed to meet student's needs in performance and education. In addition to having several music programs to choose from, McMaster University has also created a reputation for producing some of the most well-known artists. 

10. Alberta College Conservatory of Music | Grant MacEwan University

Address: 10050 MacDonald Dr NW, Edmonton, AB T5J 0S3, Canada
Top Courses: Music Theatre Performance, Bachelor of Music
Average Tuition Fee: $32,139 per year
Notable Alumni: Dave Babcock, Adine Shuchuk, Chloe Albert
QS Ranking: 56
Acceptance Rate: 59%

Those who have an affinity and love for Jazz music and would like to pursue a career in it can definitely consider Alberta College Conservatory of Music, which is regarded as one of the best music schools in Canada for that genre. The institution offers a bachelor of music in Jazz degree, which is one of the most preferred ones for students, along with a degree in contemporary popular music. 

11. Douglas College

Address: 700 Royal Avenue, New Westminster, BC V3M 5Z5
Top Courses: Music Technology, Music (diploma), Foundation of Music Therapy Studies, Applied Audio
Average Tuition Fee: $19,102 per year
Notable Alumni: NA
QS Ranking: 1434
Acceptance Rate: 25%

From the fundamentals of music to professional training, Douglas College offers a variety of courses to students looking to pursue a career in this industry. The university offers comprehensive training and education, which can help students enhance their skills and talents further. Also, this is one of the best music schools in Canada for learning basic musicianship and music management. 

12. Harris Institute

Address: 118 Sherbourne St, Toronto, ON M5A 2R2, Canada
Top Courses: Audio Production Program (APP)
Average Tuition Fee: $7,260.00 per year
Notable Alumni: NA
QS Ranking: NA
Acceptance Rate: NA

The last addition to our list is Harris Institute. The institute is one of the leading music schools in Canada, recognized as Billboard Magazine's 'Top 11 Schools', and ranked "Best in Canada" with A+ in the 2014 and 2013 'Media Arts Education Report Card.' It is definitely one of the best music schools in Canada for international students.

So, this was our compilation of the finest music schools in Canada. These esteemed institutions not only provide top-notch music programs but also pave the way for students to kick-start their careers with exceptional employment prospects. Also, if you wish to explore Canada's vibrant music scene further, check out our blog highlighting the top music festivals in Canada, offering an immersive experience of the country's dynamic musical landscape.

Employment Prospects in the Music Industry

One of the best parts of studying music is the number of job opportunities that open up after receiving a degree, certification, or diploma in the field. Students graduating from music colleges in Canada can choose from a range of professions, such as:

1. Performing Artists

Graduates from top music schools in Canada have the opportunity to pursue careers as performing artists, captivating audiences with their musical talents.

2. Session Musicians 

The industry welcomes skilled session musicians who contribute their expertise to various projects, enhancing the overall quality of recordings and live performances.

3. Composers

Creative minds can explore careers as composers, crafting original musical pieces for a range of mediums, including film, television, and other multimedia projects.

4. Sound Engineers and Producers

Music schools equip students with the technical skills needed to excel as sound engineers and producers, playing a pivotal role in the creation of high-quality recordings using cutting-edge technologies.

5. Music Management

Business-minded individuals can pursue roles in music management, overseeing the careers of artists and ensuring their success in a competitive industry.

Canada is one of the best destinations for students who wish to pursue a career in the music industry. Now that you are aware of the many options available, you can start your journey at the best music schools in Canada with all the information you need. In addition, if you're looking for student housing in Canada, we've got you covered for that, too. So don't wait another minute and start paving the way for your own Grammy!