The Artist Diploma

The Artist Diploma Program is the most advanced nondegree track, and provides focused studies for artists in the preprofessional stages of their careers. The Artist Diploma in performance exists for the few highly gifted and experienced performing musicians at the post-bachelor’s or post-master’s level who wish to pursue focused studies in their major field leading to specific professional goals. With an emphasis on repertoire, the program is designed to develop both the artistry and professionalism in performers who possess the ability and determination to realize their talent in the contemporary world. Qualification to enter the program is predicated principally on the level and quality of performance and/or achievement, rather than the attainment of specific academic credentials. The performance level of applicants must be equivalent to acceptance into a major international competition. The Artist Diploma is a two-year program. Artists in the program must be invited to continue their studies into the second year.

Prerequisites

• Bachelor’s degree or its demonstrated equivalent.
• Voice majors must demonstrate knowledge of French, German, and Italian grammar equivalent to the bachelor’s requirement of two semesters in each language. Students having less than two semesters with a grade of C or higher in each of these languages must pass proficiency examinations or take the prescribed language courses. Regardless of previous training, voice students must pass a diction proficiency examination in each language.

Language Study

Students whose native language is not English must pass the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) examination with a score of of 510 (paper-based) or 71 (internet-based) or higher and register for any deficiency courses prescribed by the area coordinator for graduate studies.

Admission

On the basis of auditions and dossier, applicants must be accepted by the appropriate faculty committee and by the studio teacher.

Curriculum

Applied Music |

Two semesters of MUS-F 550 Chamber Music (1 cr. each) required for instrumentalists only

• Four semesters of studio study; a minimum of 12 credit hours must be earned
• Four artist diploma recitals (1 cr. each)

With the approval of the faculty, voice majors may substitute one substantial operatic role for one of these recitals. Instrumentalists must present three solo recitals and one chamber music recital.

Music Theory and Music History |

Students must demonstrate proficiency in music theory equivalent to diatonic and chromatic harmony; and in music history equivalent to courses covering the music history of the Common Practice Period.

Keyboard Proficiency |

All students must pass the keyboard proficiency examination, as specified for their applied area.

Electives |

Music courses at the 300-level or above (6 cr.) Courses in music history, theory, literature, pedagogy, or composition are recommended, with permission from the advisor.

Major Ensemble |

MUS-X 003 Graduate Music Ensemble is required each semester for both instrumentalists and singers.

Cultural Events Attendance |

Students are required to enroll in and pass Mus-I 100: Cultural Events Attendance every semester in residence. Students submit ticket stubs and programs to an instructor who uses OnCourse to maintain student records. A list of the events available will be published by the Production Office. In addition to cultural events attendance, students enrolled in Mus-I100 are require to meet once a week in a Convocation/Recital Hour where junior, senior, and graduate students will perform.

Credit, Residence, and Time Limit |

Students must earn a minimum of 24 credit hours, excluding major ensemble, and have at least two regular semesters or four summer sessions in residence. Students must complete the diploma requirements within four regular semesters. Summer sessions do not count toward the time limit.