Artist Diploma in Performance

The artist diploma (A.D.) program in performance addresses the needs of those who wish to concentrate more narrowly on performance-related study than does the doctor of musical arts (D.M.A.) student. This course of study requires six semesters of performance, six semesters of large ensemble, six semesters of chamber ensemble, and one semester of repertory/literature. Additionally, students must pass an Oral Exam at the end of the program. The A.D. program does not require formal coursework in music history or theory. Students must perform five recitals, four of them solo and one a chamber recital. Students must have a master of music (M.M.) degree or its equivalent to gain admission to the program. It is possible to complete all requirements for the artist diploma program within three years of full-time residence. A student may not take more than five years to complete the program. With the approval of the graduate adviser, the Oversight Committee, and the dean, the school may extend this maximum time limit.

Artist Diploma in Opera

A total of 32 credits for the A.D. is required, distribution as follows:

1. Four semesters of performance study (12 credits) culminating in two role performances or roles study (1 credit each). These performances are evaluated by a faculty committee consisting of the student's major teacher and two additional faculty members approved by the graduate adviser. The student must receive a passing evaluation from a majority of the committee members.

2. Four semesters of ensemble (Opera Workshop - 4 credits)

3. Four courses (4 credits) in Graduate Diction: one semester each of English, French, German, and Italian

4. One course (2 credits) Acting for Singers

5. One course (2 credits) Movement for Singers

6. One course (1 credit) Seminar in Vocal Health

7. One course (1 credit) Business of Opera

In addition, all students must pass an oral examination based on the coursework included in the degree program. Normally, the student will receive the results of this examination within 15 working days. A student who fails this examination is provided with a written explanation as part of this notification. He or she will then have the chance to take a reexamination. Reexaminations occur at the next regularly scheduled test period. Unless a procedural flaw occurs in the reexamination process, a student is permitted to take only one reexamination.

Candidates must also demonstrate translation abilities in two languages, and proficiency in diction/International Phonetic Alphabet (I.P.A.) in French, German, Italian, and English.