Top 5 reasons to apply to CIM

Do you want to be the future of classical music? Then CIM must be on your radar, and application season is here! Below are five reasons we believe every serious student of music should include CIM in their educational plans.  

1. Our Faculty 

The faculty at CIM are brilliant artists with extensive experience as performers and educators. They have small studios and work closely with each student every week. They are there not only to teach you technique but also to mentor you as a musician, artist, and person. While we truly believe you can't go wrong with any one of our faculty members, we also know it’s essential for you to find the right fit. We want YOU to be the future of classical music!  

2. Our affiliation with Case Western Reserve University 

CIM and nearby Case Western Reserve University have a close, long-standing relationship which allows CIM students to craft the college experience of their dreams. All CIM students have full access to the entire course catalog at CWRU, and can even add a minor at no additional cost. A handful of students take advantage of our dual degree program, through which they earn two full bachelor's degrees in five years: one degree from CIM and another from CWRU. CIM students also have full access to our partner's libraries, fitness facilities, medical services, dining plans, student clubs (over 200 to choose from!), and all student events. 

3. University Circle and Cleveland adventures 

When CIM students aren’t in class, practicing, or performing, there’s plenty else for them to do around town. CIM lies in the heart of University Circle, a culturally rich area that includes Case Western Reserve University, the Cleveland Institute of Art, the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, the Cleveland Museum of Art, the Cleveland Botanical Garden, Little Italy, and much more! The Cleveland Museum of Art is a favorite, as it is free and a relaxing, inspiring place to spend time. Another cool perk for CIM students: free tickets to The Cleveland Orchestra! Many, many students regularly take advantage of this exceptional opportunity to hear one of the greatest orchestras in the world. Bonus fact: more than half of The Cleveland Orchestra is composed of CIM faculty and alumni!  

4. Community 

Among independent US conservatories, CIM boasts one of the smallest student bodies, an average of about 350 per year, including both undergraduate and graduate students. This smaller size allows each student to receive personalized attention and make closer connections to faculty and fellow students. These closer bonds also create a support system that is rare at other conservatories. While there are opportunities to get involved with clubs and organizations at CWRU, CIM also has several in-house student organizations including the Student Government Association, Social Justice @ CIM, the Black Student Union, the Women’s Empowerment Association, and the Sexuality and Gender Alliance. With so many options, every CIM student can get involved in a group that’s right for them!  

5. Performances 

CIM presents more than 600 performances every year between guest, faculty, and student recitals, orchestra concerts, operas, chamber concerts, and contemporary music. Our chamber groups are central to our program and rehearse, coach, and perform on a weekly basis both inside CIM and out in the community. The CIM Orchestra, too, rehearses regularly and performs six to eight public concerts a semester, often at nearby Severance Music Center, home of The Cleveland Orchestra. Every year, CIM Opera Theater presents at least two fully staged productions (three this year!) as well as a scenes program in the spring. All students also can perform on a weekly basis in studio class with their primary teacher. In studio, students work with teachers in a masterclass setting and are able to learn as a participant or an observer.  

I am so glad I chose CIM and I know you will be too. We hope to see you in the halls here next fall!

- Ella

The application for Fall 2024 admission is now live! Learn more and find your place at the Cleveland Institute of Music by visiting www.cim.edu/apply.