The Performer Diploma

The Performer Diploma Program is a special curriculum for outstanding students in performance who show promise of becoming concert artists and who do not wish to pursue study leading to an academic degree. The purpose of the diploma program is to provide concentrated study in solo and chamber music literature.

Prerequisites

• A high school diploma or its demonstrated equivalent
• Demonstrated proficiency in musical performance at a very high level of technical and musical proficiency

Admission

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

Language Study

Students whose native language is not English must take an English language examination at IU South Bend. Depending on the level achieved, they may need to register for any deficiency courses prescribed by the advisor.

Curriculum

Applied Music |

• Studio study (four semesters, a minimum of 12 credit hours must be earned).
• Two recitals (2 cr.) or equivalent public performances as assigned by the music faculty must be presented and passed.
• MUS-X 423 Chamber Music (1 cr. each) (two semesters, required for instrumentalists only)

Electives (6 cr.) |

Graduate or undergraduate courses, as approved by the advisor. Classes in music literature, history, and/or pedagogy are recommended, others may be possible, with permission of the advisor. Studio courses or chamber music study may not be used to fulfill this requirement.

Major Ensemble |

Required each semester for both instrumentalists and singers.

Credit, Residence, and Time Limit |

Students must earn a minimum of 22 credit hours, excluding major ensemble, and have at least one regular semester or two summer sessions in residence. Students must complete the diploma requirements within four regular semesters. Summer sessions do not count toward the time limit.