Vanderbilt University Blair School of Music - Nashville, Tennessee

C

The Vanderbilt Blair School of Music Pre-College Program is a place where the young, filled with trembling aspirations and raw, unformed talent, are drawn into the crucible of art and discipline. It is a world unto itself—a sanctuary where the spirit of music is not merely learned but wrestled with, shaped, and ultimately revealed as something transformative.

The instructors, those towering figures of skill and wisdom, stand as both guides and guardians. They are not merely musicians, though their talents alone might inspire awe, but teachers in the truest sense. They do not condescend nor impose; rather, they inspire and draw forth from each student what lies dormant, hidden beneath the surface. They are craftsmen and dreamers alike, shaping technique, artistry, and performance with a patient yet unrelenting hand.

And yet, this program is not content with mere instruction. No, it is a labyrinth of experience, offering masterclasses that challenge the mind, ensembles that demand unity of spirit, and performances that lay bare the soul. In these moments, the young musicians learn not only to master their instruments but to confront themselves—their fears, their doubts, their aspirations—and emerge stronger for it.

The faculty, one cannot help but feel, carry a rare burden: they care. They care deeply, almost painfully, about the growth of each student. This is no mere job for them, no passing duty. Their instruction is tailored as if each child were a unique puzzle to be solved, a distinct melody to be drawn out and set free. In their care, the students are not simply prepared for success but are given the tools to seek something higher—something meaningful.

There is, of course, a sense of order, of meticulous organization, but this is no cold machine. The Blair School of Music is alive, pulsing with creativity, discipline, and collaboration. For those who enter its doors, it offers more than training—it offers a glimpse of what it means to strive for greatness, to grapple with beauty and imperfection alike.

If you seek a program for the young musician, one that does not merely teach but transforms, the Vanderbilt Blair School of Music Pre-College Program stands alone. It is not an easy path—it is one of challenge, growth, and revelation. But for those who choose it, it is a path that leads to something profound, something enduring. Highly recommended, though words alone cannot capture its worth.

Rebecca Nichols

Folks, if you're not taking advantage of seeing up and coming, talented musicians - orchestral, jazz, rock - for absolutely FREE...well, you're missing out. Did I mention admission to most concerts and recitals is free? Yep. Free.

A C

They may be good, but it comes with arrogance and attitude. They really don't care and do not make any adjustments and I disagree with that. Just because someone is successful, there is no reason to be rude. We can still remain humble.

Ragnar

They've always got some great shows and I really enjoy myself every time I'm able to catch a Blair event 🙂

daeyoung jo

Love it!
Beautiful campus, friendly staff, awesome program and amazing faculty...
Wishing all newbies good luck and ace the audition!

Justin Blanchard

Great faculty and hard-working students. There’s always a great variety of high quality public concerts and student performances.

Andrew Leaptrot

Nobody said a word to me for sneaking into a practice room to warm up while visiting family in the city. Seems like a friendly environment.

Cana Fass

Awesome place to visit. Definitely consider going there!