Two of the nation's top performing arts colleges are exploring a merger. Berklee College of Music and the Boston Conservatory are considering a deal that would allow the schools to share faculty and curricula.

The goal is ambitious -- to create the most comprehensive, 21st century music and performing arts education in the world. Roger Brown is president of Berklee. He says the proposed merger will allow more students to learn about choreography, technology, entrepreneurship and social media.

"Each of the schools has these expertises in different areas and our hope is that if we can come together and give students access to more of these opportunities, we can increase the rate of success for our students and graduates," says Brown.

Leaders at both schools hope this merger will help them attract the most talented students, and make their education more affordable. A decision is expected this fall, but if approved, the merger would take effect in 2016.