09.01.03 Curriculum

09.01.03 Curriculum: 

The Diploma requires a minimum of 2 semesters of full-time study, with students enrolled in a minimum of 9 units per semester.  The curriculum is designed so that there are key elements shared by all students regardless of instrument, but maximum flexibility is maintained so that students can design a course of study that focuses on their individual needs.

Applied Music Lessons – Students are required to enrolled in applied music lessons with their primary teacher every semester.

Ensembles – The ensemble requirement may be fulfilled by any combination of large, small, and chamber ensembles, as determined in collaboration with the student’s advisor and applied teacher. 

Electives – Students in the diploma program will enroll in a limited number of specific elective courses, pre-determined based on their performance area and developed in consultation with each department.  Students will work closely with their advisor in the Office of Academic Affairs and applied teacher to determine an appropriate slate of elective courses to fulfill their requirements.  The proposed elective coursework will then be submitted to the Diploma Supervisory Committee for final approval. Examples of the types of elective courses will include:

• Additional large ensemble, small ensemble, and/or chamber music courses
• Performance-based courses such as orchestral repertoire
• Arts Leadership courses
• Pedagogy courses
• Selected Music Teaching and Learning courses

Diploma Performance Project – The Diploma Performance Project is the capstone activity in the program and may take the form of a recital, lecture recital, mock audition, or other performance project.  The proposal for the project is to be developed in consultation with the student’s advisor and applied teacher, and a final proposal must be approved in advance by the Diploma Supervisory Committee.  The Performance Project is expected to be completed during the student’s final semester in residence.