<p>You should also be aware that the Harvard/NEC joint program is extremely selective, accepting very few applicants each year. Usually only a few students per year, if even that many. Even those who are accepted separately by both schools are not guaranteed admission to the program. The NEC/Tufts program accepts somewhat more applicants if you are willing to consider non-Ivy League schools, and Tufts might offer some talent-based or academic merit-based aid. </p>
<p>Note that it would also be possible to study privately with a number of excellent teachers in the Boston/Cambridge area while attending Harvard. A Harvard student might also be able to work out a program through Longy School of Music (right in Harvard Square) to prepare for an application to a graduate school of music. These options are likely to be expensive, though.</p>
<p>Among the Ivies, Yale University has a particularly strong music program. Do not confuse it with the Yale School of Music, which is primarily for graduate students, although it may be possible for a very advanced undergrad to get applied lessons from one of the Yale SOM faculty. As at Harvard, financial aid at Yale is only awarded on the basis of need.</p>