New York City contains one of the most prestigious music conservatories in the world with the Manhattan School of Music. The school offers degree programs for bachelors, masters and doctoral levels. Performance and composition can be studied within classical music and jazz. There are more than 800 students, representing 40 different nationalities. From 1969, the location has been next to the Columbia University campus but the school was founded in 1917. 

The list of alumni is most impressive. In addition to important figures in the world of classical music, there are renowned jazz performers. These include the trumpeter, Donald Byrd, the keyboardist Herbie Hancock, and the flautist Herbie Mann. The singer and actor Harry Connick Jr., is also on the list. The teachers at the Manhattan School of Music are well respected and many of them are members of prominent orchestras in New York.

The itinerary for study is extensive and includes orchestral instruments, piano, voice, composition, saxophone, organ, guitar, jazz, and conducting. Students have the opportunity to participate in a one on one exchange program with students from the Conservatorium van Amsterdam. The Manhattan School of Music has a good relationship with the local community and staff runs inclusive programs during the summer months. There are Summer Music Camps for grades 5, 6, 7, and 8 and a Summer Professional Musical Theater Workshop. The school also reaches out to the outer world by operating a Distance Learning Program, which is taken up by students from many countries. The program works by using videoconferencing technology. 

Students enjoy living in the exciting city of New York, where they have the best in culture, shopping and dining. The city has productions for ballet and opera, jazz clubs and symphony orchestras. They also have access to the gymnasium at Columbia University. Many students at the Manhattan School of Music live in the residence hall, known as Andersen Hall. Most rooms are double rooms and each student has their own telephone line. The hall contains 60 practice rooms, laundry facilities, a fitness room and a student lounge. Students in residence can feel secure as there is 24-hour security provided.

There is a thriving social life for students and new entrants are made to feel welcome. There are welcome social functions and family and friends weekends. Events for international students are organized and there are health and wellness fairs and Alexander Technique classes. The Manhattan School of Music promises a rich experience in every way.