Hi all, I am a parent of 2 elementary school kids, both of which have shown keen interest and ability in classical music. I am trying to research private schools in New England area that have a strong focus on its music program. Where I can find such information? What are the more well known schools in the New England area that have strong music program?
Thanks!
If you live within commuting distance, Rivers has a Conservatory. For boarding you can check out Walnut Hill
Thanks vwlizard - I heard about Rivers too. They are within my area so will definitely check it out.
@AlexCLLai - check out Hotchkiss. They have a very strong music program with many students continuing on with scholarships & awards. We were very impressed by their programs, performance opportunities, venues at the school, and (most of all) the amazingly talented musicians at that school. The practice and performing venues at Hotchkiss are the most beautiful we have seen in the NE.
Not sure if you have sons or daughters, but if you have daughters, check out Westover. They have a program/partnership with the Manhattan School of Music.
@AlexCLLai - if you are close to Rivers, you are probably close to Walnut Hill as well. It’s in Natick.
In the Boston area many students attend local public or private schools and take classes/join groups at the New England Conservatory.
Thank you all! I am in Boston area and my children have private teachers for piano and taking lessons on second instrument at local public elementary schools. Just wondering if a school like Rivers (with a Conservatory) that has a specific focus will be a better environment than taking additional private classes.
I’m not a music kid, but from what I’ve heard, Choate’s music program is awesome. Also, your children would be able to play in Colony Hall, the new school auditorium, so that’d be pretty cool.
Choate is great. Hotchkiss may be better for piano. The school had the CT winner and runner up in the Senior MTNA competition as well as the winner and runner up in Junior piano competition in 2018 (the most recent year). Also had CT winner in woodwinds (flute) who eventually made it to Nationals. There was a 2nd place in strings in CT as well. The head of the music department and his wife are both accomplished and touring concert pianists. The school has around 20 Steinways and a beautiful Fazioli concert grand.
Thirding Hotchkiss. What the other posters wrote is absolutely correct.