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Musicians Institute

Los Angeles, United States

  • Cost of Living$ 27,876
  • Tuition Fee From$ -
  • Country Rank#1439
  • Batch Strength1,425
  • Global Diversity-
  • Gender Ratio-

Overview

About

Musicians Institute (MI) is a distinguished College of Contemporary Music operating in Los Angeles, California. Its inception dates back to 1977, known initially as the Guitar Institute of Technology (GIT).

In a time when experience-based music education was rare, GIT pioneered innovation. The visionaries behind this initiative were Howard Roberts and Pat Hicks. They laid the foundation by selecting prominent player educators from the U.S. 

With over 40 years of experience, MI is dedicated to pioneering new paths for the global music community.  This commitment to excellence is reflected in their distinguished alumni. 

Their accomplishments showcase the profound impact of Musicians Institute courses and educational approaches. Some of the most well-known names are Anderson Paak (5 Grammy Awards), Bishop Briggs (1 Grammy nomination), Gaby Moreno, and Ray Luzier. 

Moreover, music programmes let students pursue their passions while receiving a comprehensive education.

This tradition thrives, uniting creative, educational, and professional expertise to guide students. A notable distinguishing factor lies in its enrolment of over 2,000 students from diverse corners of the world. This demographic variety fosters a dynamic and globally inclusive community.

At MI, they promote creative education, providing musicians with vital skills for success. They strive for diversity, nurturing a variety of talents that contribute to the global artistic scene. 

 

Musicians Institute Acceptance Rate

The 2023 Musicians Institute acceptance rate is 77.87% (may vary by programme). Meeting requirements is crucial, and additional factors also impact your acceptance chances. 

 

These factors include your academic achievements, musical abilities and extracurricular engagements. Your path to acceptance is shaped by a mix of requirements and various aspects that make you a well-rounded candidate.

Ranking

MI is ranked #1053 in the United States for education and also ranked #46 for the safest college campuses in America. Additionally, the Musicians Institute ranking also extends across various domains mentioned below:

 

  • #455 - Music School in the U.S. 2022
  • #41 - Music School in California 2022
  • #101 - Best Colleges in California 2021
  • #20 - Best Colleges for Music in America 2022

 

Musicians Institute Course-wise Ranking

MI excels in specialised programmes, consistently ranking high. Notably, it is 14th on Hollywood Reporter's Top 25 music schools for film and TV. Its prestige comes from expert faculty, practical curriculum, and strong industry ties. 

 

The institute's seasoned professionals enrich students' learning. Additionally, a comprehensive curriculum readies them for success in the music industry. Valuable industry connections also enhance job prospects. Standout courses include: 

 

  • #9 - Music Management & Merchandising 2022
  • #11 - Music Performance 2022
  • #12 - Recording Arts Technology 2022
  • #13 - Audio Engineering in California 2022
  • #11 - Most Focused Associate Degree Colleges for Recording Arts Technology/Technician, 2023 
  • #16 - Most Focused Associate Degree Colleges for Audiovisual Communications in the USA, 2023

Year

QS Ranks

US News Ranks

2023

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Facilities

Musicians Institute facilities are pivotal for growth. They serve as vital hubs for Audio Engineering and Independent Artist programmes. These spaces also act as studios for student projects, ensuring a well-rounded learning experience. Below are some top-notch facilities you can enjoy at the MI.

 

  • Recording Studios: Tailored spaces for diverse recording needs, offering high-quality recording with specialised features. THX Certified dubbing stages provide comprehensive recording experience.

 

  • MI Concert Hall: Seats 474, with a 900 sq. ft. stage. Main venue for artist concerts and workshops. Equipped with Digidesign Venue mixing board for pro audio and video recording.

 

  • Live Performance Halls: Showcase guitar, bass amps, and Audix microphones. Nine fully equipped rooms for Live Performance Workshops. Workstation-based audio labs have industry-standard recording software.

 

  • Independent Artist Tracking Studio: The primary tracking studio features Cubase SX3 audio software on a Mac—extensive plugins, gear, and microphones for direct and live recording, including full drum sets.

 

  • Classrooms: Versatile and instrument-specific training spaces. Equipped for counselling, private instruction, and group practice. Customised setups, software, and hardware for performance development.

 

  • Player's Supply Store: Provides accessories, instructional materials, CDs, videos, and clothing with the MI logo.

 

  • Special Physical Needs: All facilities at MI are designed to be ADA-compliant, prioritising inclusivity. They feature hydraulic lifts, ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms, and fountains, ensuring everyone's accessibility.


Private Lesson and Practice Labs: Provides over 100 private and small-group rooms. These spaces create an optimal learning environment.

Notable Alumni

Ray Luzier
Ray Luzier
American musician
Shruti Haasan
Shruti Haasan
Indian actress and singer
Brooke White
Brooke White
American singer-songwriter and actress

Courses

Admission

Musicians Institute Entry Requirements

Ensuring a successful academic journey at MI involves meeting specific entry criteria. These conditions include education, musical skills evaluation, and a holistic application process. Here are the key Musicians Institute entry requirements you should be aware of:

 

  • Education Requirement: Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent from an accredited institution.
  • Test Scores (Selective): SAT or ACT scores are needed for the Bachelor of Music programme.
  • Recommendation Letter: A music expert's recommendation assessing your musical abilities is crucial.
  • Previous College Records: Provide official transcripts if you've attended college before.
  • Audition: Most programmes mandate an audition, each with varying requirements.
  • Personal Statement: Write a 250-word essay explaining your choice of MI.
  • Application Fee: Pay a $100 application fee.

 

Musicians Institute English Proficiency Requirements

MI cares about how well international applicants understand English. This is important for doing well in your chosen programme and talking effectively. If English isn't your first language, you'll need to share scores from certain tests. 

 

The scores you need might be different depending on what you're studying. The scores you send should be from tests you took in the last two years. Here are the tests and scores they accept:

 

  • TOEFL: Minimum scores of 500 (paper-based), 173 (computer-based), or 61 (internet-based)
  • IELTS: Minimum score of 6
  • PTE Academic: Minimum score of 51
  • Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 100

 

Musicians Institute Fees

The school's tuition and fees align with other reputable music institutions. Total expenses vary depending on programme choice, online/on-campus attendance, and residency status. Here's a breakdown of Musicians Institute fees for the 2023-2024 academic year for both Associate of Arts (AA) and Bachelor of Music (BM) programmes:

 

1. On-Campus Tuition (Per Quarter):

  • Music Performance: AA/BM - $8,244
  • Recording Arts Technology: AA/BM - $8,244
  • Audio Engineering: AA/BM - $8,244
  • Music Business: AA/BM - $8,244

 

2. Online Tuition (Per Quarter):

  • Music Performance: AA/BM - $6,120
  • Recording Arts Technology: AA/BM - $6,120
  • Audio Engineering: AA/BM - $6,120
  • Music Business: AA/BM - $6,120

 

Placements

Musicians Institute placements guide students and alumni to promising music industry opportunities. Their impressive success rate ranks them among the top 15%, offering valuable career counselling. 

 

Students can attain an associate degree by completing a minimum of 45 credits. The National Association of Schools of Music accredits the Musicians Institute. It is certified by the US Department of Education and the Council of Higher Education Accreditation.

 

Scholarship

Musicians Institute offers diverse scholarships to aid aspiring musicians. These scholarships ensure passionate students thrive in their musical pursuits. Here are the categories providing financial assistance and recognition:

 

  • Musicians Foundation Scholarships: Support music enthusiasts with financial needs, offering varied options with unique criteria.

 

  • MI Alumni Scholarships: Honor Musicians Institute alumni by assisting their descendants and carrying forward the institute's tradition.

 

  • Industry Partner Scholarships: Collaborate with industry partners, providing scholarships with defined criteria for industry-driven success.

 

  • Merit Scholarships: Celebrate academic and musical excellence, aiding outstanding achievers in both domains.

 

  • Performance Scholarships: Recognize exceptional musical skill and artistry, rewarding outstanding performers.

 

  • Specialised Scholarships: Tailored to specific disciplines like recording arts or music business, encouraging focused advancement.

 

These scholarships provide financial aid for a student's musical journey. Consider exploring additional scholarship avenues through UniScholars. This would be a valuable resource with many opportunities across various fields.

Finances

Managing finances while studying abroad is crucial, and UniCreds offers a transformative solution. Explore tailored lenders and loan options with flexible repayment plans and 100% financing. Use user-friendly tools for loan estimation. With UniCreds, expert guidance ensures a supported journey from start to finish.

Accommodation

While MI doesn't provide on-campus housing, it prioritises your comfort. The institute assists in securing convenient nearby accommodations. Additionally, it offers the MI Housing Guide for insights and apartment listings for off-campus housing. You can also explore effective resources like UniAcco for premium accommodation options that suit your needs.

Cost of Living

As you begin your journey in Los Angeles, it's important to understand the city's cost of living. Various factors, including your housing preferences, choice of neighbourhood, and seasonal shifts, will substantially shape your financial requirements. Below is a detailed breakdown below to gain a comprehensive understanding of the estimated expenses unique to Los Angeles:

 

Particulars

Monthly Cost (US Dollars)

Off-Campus Accommodation 

$650

On-Campus Accommodation

$684

Transportation

$100

Food Cost

$360

Utility Cost

$139

Entertainment

$60

Groceries

$48

Clothes

$137

Total Cost of Living with Off-Campus Accommodation 

$1,493

Total Cost of Living with On-Campus Accommodation 

$1,527

Annual Cost of Living

$17,920