One of the most selective schools in the United States, Curtis accepts four percent of applicants each year on average, and a tuition-free policy ensures that talent and artistic promise are the only considerations for admission.

With a small student body of about 175, Curtis ensures that each young musician receives an education of unparalleled quality, distinguished by a “learn by doing” philosophy and personalized attention from a faculty that includes a high proportion of actively performing musicians.

Curtis students hone their craft through more than 200 orchestra, opera, and solo and chamber music offerings each year and programs that bring arts access and education to the community. This real-world training allows these extraordinary young musicians to join the front rank of performers, composers, conductors, and musical leaders, making a profound impact on music onstage and in their communities.

What Makes Curtis Unique?

Core Values

Success in meeting Curtis's principal objectives requires unwavering commitment to the school's core values:

• Excellence
• "Learn by doing" philosophy, achievable through its unique, small size
• Tuition-free policy
• Musical leadership, advocacy, and engagement
• Institutional adaptability, flexibility, and diversity