Best Music colleges in Chennai - Courses, Fees, Admissions 2025

Chennai has over 10+ best Music colleges. Out of these, 7 are privately owned, and 5 colleges are owned by public government organizations. Chennai offers Music college courses in full-time, part-time, online and distance correspondence modes.

The University of Madras, SIMTS, School of Music and Fine Arts, Institute of Distance Education, University of Madras, MGR Government Film and Television Institute, Queen Marys College, Dr MGR - Janaki College of Arts and Science for Women, and anymore are the top colleges for music in Chennai. 

Although there are different colleges in Chennai for music courses but  University of Madras holds No.1 position on popularity basis in the field of Arts and Music, The colleges is especally known for its academic foundation and a variety of programs in arts, Science and commerce.

Since, the dawn of civilisation, music has been considered as an inborn talent of man, which can be vocal and instrumental. Music is sung or played for self-expression, self-satisfaction, offering worship, and entertaining others. Instrumental music refers to the music produced by instruments like guitar sarod, sitar, piano, keyboard, tabla, flute, violin, etc. 

Arts (Fine/ Visual/ Performing) Courses

Applied Arts Course Details

There are various types of music courses, some are mentioned below:

Undergraduate Courses

• BA in Music, BFA in Music, BMus (Bachelor of Music), etc.

Postgraduate Courses

• MA in Music, MPhil, and PhD in Music.

Diploma and Certificate Courses

•  Short-term and specialised courses in classical music, music production, sound engineering, etc.

The eligibility criteria for Music courses vary depending on the level of study and the institution, to be eligible to pursue a Music Course, the candidates are required to complete the basic course in vocal or instrumental music.

Below are the general requirements : 

Undergraduate:

A 12th-grade education (any stream: Arts, Commerce, or Science) with a background in music (either classical or other forms) or passing an entrance exam/auditions. 

For BFA/BMus in Music, a background in music (either classical, vocal, or instrumental) is often preferred.

Some colleges might accept candidates without prior music education if they pass an entrance exam or audition.

Postgraduate:

 A bachelor's degree in music (BA in Music, BMus, BFA in Music) or a related field.

Some institutions may allow applicants from other fields, provided they have proficiency in music and clear an entrance exam or interview.

A music course helps develop skills in music theory, instruments, and vocals, opening career opportunities as a performer, composer, producer, or teacher. It encourages creative expression, cultural awareness, and improves focus, memory, and concentration.

 Music courses also offer networking opportunities, industry recognition, and personal growth, boosting confidence and emotional intelligence. Additionally, they provide income potential through performances and teaching.

Hi,

These are the courses which can help you to become a musician Bachelor of Performing Arts in Music + Diploma in Music, Bachelor of Performing Arts - Indian Classical Music (Tabla), B.A. In Music Production and Composition, B.A. In Music, Bachelor of Fine Arts in Music (Vocal), B.A. In Music Technology, BPA in Western Contemporary Music are offered.

The table below shows the government's best Music colleges in India along with their total tuition fees and entrance exams:

Disclaimer: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.

The table below shows the private Music colleges in India along with their total tuition fees and entrance exams:

Disclaimer: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.

Below is a list of top Music colleges in Chennai and a few leading recruiters that recruit Music graduates along with their placement ratings.

Disclaimer: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.

The B.A degree in music exposes students not only to practical sessions but also to classroom sessions as well. By this study, students become very well aware on the theoretical and historical aspects of music. Other career options for these graduates include those arising behind the scenes or in the business area of music. Almost all entry-level jobs require mere graduation as necessary qualification. Higher qualifications such as M.A or M. Phil are required for obtaining high designated jobs in the sector. The areas in private sector where skilled professionals in Music are recruited include:

• Advertising Agencies 
• Booking and Talent Agencies 
• Colleges and Universities 
• Elementary and Secondary Schools
• Entertainment Companies
• Industry Trade Papers
• Law Firms
• Magazines
• Media Firms
• Music and Film Studios
• Music and Video Stores
• Music Companies
• Music Industry Associations
• Newspapers
• Orchestras and Bands
• Performing Arts Centers
• Production Companies
• Public Relations Firms
• Publishing Firms
• Religious Institutions

Graduates in this field can explore their own areas of interest in Music. They can earn well and gain popularity through this art. Talented professionals can gain much popularity in the society through a prestigious job involving music.

• To be eligible to pursue a Music Course, the candidates are required to complete the basic course in vocal or instrumental music.
• There are three undergraduate programs: BA  (Hons in Music),  BFA  (Music) and B.PA (Music). Besides, to pursue a year's undergraduate course, the candidate must have passed the Class 12 board examination with a minimum of 50 per cent marks in aggregate (45% marks for reserved category candidates).
• Those who have appeared for the Class 12 Board examination are also eligible for the course but have to submit their final mark sheet at the time of admission to the varsity. 
• To pursue a postgraduate course,  the candidate needs to have completed an undergraduate course in music (either vocal or instrumental). 

The eligible candidates would have to sit for a national-level admission test for the purpose.