The Institute was founded in 1920, with the composer Ernest Bloch as director. There are now more than 400 conservatory students and 1500 preparatory and continuing education students. Approximately 1,100 people apply for 150 undergraduate and graduate openings each year, of which 60-70 are freshmen.
More than half of the members of The Cleveland Orchestra are connected to the Cleveland Institute of Music as members of the faculty, alumni or both. Through a cooperative arrangement with Case Western Reserve University, CIM students have full access to university courses and facilities.
CIM's East Boulevard entrance
In 2007, CIM completed a remodeling project in conjunction with its successful campaign to raise $40 million. Two wings were added to the main building. The facilities added 36,000 square feet (3,300 m2) and feature: a new entryway and expanded lobby --Pogue Lobby--on East Boulevard; an expanded Barbara S. and Larry J. B. Robinson Music Library; Mixon Hall, a 250-seat, state-of-the-art recital hall that also includes the Robert and Jean Conrad Audio Control Room for high-tech broadcasting; the Fred A. Lennon Education Building which includes new practice rooms, teaching studios and a student lounge; Kulas Center for International Education (Distance Learning Studio) and administrative space. This also includes the Gilliam Family Music Garden, which can be enjoyed year round from inside and outside Mixon Hall.
CIM students and faculty perform in hundreds of concerts each year--most free of charge. CIM graduates are members of premier orchestras around the globe.