From classical guitar to jazz, contemporary, rock, blues, and more, take your skills to the next level with high-level study. 

An instrument used throughout many cultures, you can explore the world according to the guitar through styles like Flamenco music, Arabic music, early music, and beyond. Grow your artistry, build your technical facility, and expand your musical possibilities in a community of empowerment, collaboration, and support. Hone and challenge your performance skills with a diverse array of solo, chamber, and ensemble experiences. Dig into the transformational power of music through community outreach. Become the versatile and entrepreneurial musician the world needs. Where will your musical journey take you?

Performance Opportunities

Strike the right chord with ensembles ranging from jazz to classical to mariachi. You also have the flexibility to create your own combos. 

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Expert Faculty

Nathan Wysock focuses on classical guitar and Steve Peplin specializes in jazz.

Meet Our Faculty

Create a Musical Life

Discover the many paths open to Conservatory graduates. 

See Outcomes
Student plays guitar during jazz rehearsal

Studio Culture

The guitar program is what you make of it. You’ll start with learning classical guitar alongside your peers in small groups and individual instruction, and then progress to any of the many musical styles that feature the guitar. With formal and informal ensembles, performance is a key piece of studying guitar. Collaboration is at the root of performance and learning, with one-on-one instruction and studio classes with fellow guitarists. Instruction from masters in classical and jazz guitar focuses on technique, musicianship, harmony, pedagogy and repertoire.

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The Power of Collaboration

What happens when you combine a world-class conservatory with a world-class college? An unmatched undergraduate musical education. At Lawrence, the Conservatory and College experiences are intertwined. Multiple degree options let you be your own muse by connecting your musical passions with your academic interests. 

Discover Degree Options
Student plays guitar on stage

Jazz It Up

With an instructor focused on jazz guitar and Lawrence's award-winning jazz program and ensembles, it is no surprise that studying jazz guitar is popular.

Learn more about jazz
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Apply and Audition

A musical life awaits. Take the next steps by applying and auditioning.

Apply Now

Visit Our Campus

The best way to find out if Lawrence is the university for you is by visiting.

Schedule Your Visit

Visit Virtually

Your virtual tour starts at the Arch but be sure to check out Conservatory, to explore learning and performance spaces.

Start your tour
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Sound the Retreat

Bond with your fellow musicians, focus on your craft, and immerse yourself in natural beauty during retreat weekends at Björklunden, a 441-acre estate on the shores of Lake Michigan.

Discover Björklunden
Open book of music.

Up to $5000

Funds for Conservatory Student Projects

You'll have access to financial support for internships at venues like Carnegie Hall, touring and summer festivals, and even commissioning new works to perform in recitals.

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On Any Given Day...

...discover an array of opportunities that await you at Lawrence University.
Music & Arts

Music Tour with a Mission | This is Lawrence

Presto went to Houston! Lawrence visited high schools, worked with community organizations, and performed a one-night-only concert.

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Tradition

Music outdoors

Music is woven into life at Lawrence. Wander campus and you'll hear students practicing piano in lounges, violins in Warch, and horns outside.