<p>There are some names that might open doors for you and some that might get you
“street cred” if you are starting your own studio (as in people only know the name Julliard if they are not in the know about music schools), but in the end the roles experience and teacher’s ability to launch you into the next level are more important. If all were equal I would go with lower debt. DD has made that choice herself based on the very well known facts musicamusica stated that money DOES equal roles. So in the prestigious school, if the money is equal to what they are giving others it may make no difference. But if it is not, the roles may not be there no matter what they say right now. The big name schools cast what they pay for. You have to really know the school’s actual practices. Preferably with some inside info. </p>
<p>Your S has some fine choices and the decision is a hard one. I would be reluctant to take on debt if all were equal. The name does not get you that much and there are going to be so many more expenses in the future that debt would weigh on him. There may be even more study such as the post masters performance certificate that is becoming more common. And much more travel and audition expense post MM.</p>