Diplomas and Certificates

 

Pre-College Diplomas

The Eastman Community Music School awards diplomas to graduating seniors based on two-, four-, or six-year course sequences: The Diploma, The Senior Diploma, and The Preparatory Diploma. The Preparatory Diploma is the most comprehensive, and is designed to allow the student to select courses leading to college credit in music theory at the Eastman School of Music. In addition to private studio lessons, participation in ensembles and studies in music theory and history and secondary piano are required. Each of these diplomas are offered with a choice of three majors:

1. Instrument or Voice
2. Instrument with an emphasis in Jazz
3. Music Theory

Each of the diplomas may be earned with honors by meeting rigorous performance requirements. Official transcripts are maintained by the University of Rochester, and will be forwarded to colleges of your choice without charge.

 

Adult Diplomas

The Eastman Community Music School awards two diplomas representing different lengths and depths of study — The Adult 2-Year Diploma and the Adult 4-Year Diploma. Working towards these diplomas, students develop a broad range of musical skills. In addition to private studio lessons, participation in ensembles and studies in music theory and history are required.

Each of these diplomas are offered with a choice of three majors:

1. Instrument or Voice
2. Instrument with an emphasis in Jazz
3. Music Theory

Academic Advising

The studio teacher and the theory department chairperson serve as advisors in determining the most appropriate course of study for each student. An appointment may be made with the theory chairperson, Margaret Henry; the ECMS director, Howard Potter; or the jazz department chair, Bob Sneider, to discuss diploma options and requirements and to develop a multi-year strategy. A separate brochure detailing all of the diploma requirements is available from the ECMS office.

 

Certificate of Advanced Achievement in Performance

The Certificate of Advanced Achievement in Performance will be awarded to students who have achieved the top curriculum level (level VI) in their instrument or voice through the Eastman Community Music School Jury rating. The certificate will be awarded at graduation in the student’s senior year. Diploma and non-diploma students are eligible. Those students who have earned the Diploma with Honors will also receive the Certificate of Advanced Achievement in Performance, even though a diploma with Honors supersedes this Certificate.

 

Certificate of Merit

Students who take lessons and at least one other class or ensemble, and who receive an A in all classes and lessons for the year, will receive the Certificate of Merit.