Performance Diploma

The Performance Diploma is a nondegree program for the specialized training of vocalists and performers of orchestral and keyboard instruments who seek advanced musical training. The program is narrow in focus, selective in nature, and specifically tailored to the student who desires intensive, performance-oriented training.

Learning Outcomes

At the completion of the program, students are expected to demonstrate:

• Performance techniques and skills in the area of concentration.
• Knowledge and understanding of various musical styles.
• Artistic judgment and skills for navigating the professional world.

Performance Areas

Bassoon	French Horn	Percussion	Tuba
Cello	Harp	Piano	Viola
Clarinet	Harpsichord	Saxophone	Violin
Double Bass	Oboe	Trombone	Voice
Flute	Organ	Trumpet

Each student is assigned to a member of the faculty for private instruction. Individual instruction is given in one-hour lessons; every effort is made to consider the student’s preferences in studio assignment. All degree requirements must be completed within five years of the date of matriculation.

Orchestral Instruments

The Performance Diploma in orchestral instruments places emphasis on orchestral and chamber music repertoire as well as the solo repertoire. The program focuses on the practical aspects of musical training: private instruction, performance, participation in musical organizations and chamber music, and musicianship skills.

Program of Study

Candidates are required to spend two years in residence and to pursue private instruction (four semesters) in their performance field. Students must complete a minimum of 28 semester credits with grades no lower than B– in graduate-level coursework.

Candidates on orchestral instruments are required to participate in chamber music and large ensembles—BU Orchestras (CFA MP 500/600 A1) and/or BU Wind Ensemble (CFA MP 502/602 A1)—as assigned, in each of their first four semesters of study, regardless if they have earned the required four credits in fewer than four semesters. Candidates will present a minimum of two solo recitals or the equivalent while in residence.

CFA ML 501–40 Applied Music	12 cr
CFA MP 600, 602 Musical Organizations	4 cr
CFA MP 608 Chamber Music	4 cr
Graduate Music electives	8 cr
Total credits	28 cr

Keyboard Instruments

The Performance Diploma in keyboard instruments (piano/harpsichord/organ) offers intensive study of solo, chamber, collaborative, and ensemble keyboard repertoire.

Candidates are required to spend two years in residence and to pursue private instruction (four semesters) in their performance field.

Candidates will present a minimum of two solo recitals or their equivalent while in residence.

Piano

Program of Study

CFA ML 501–02 Applied Music	12 cr
CFA MP 608 Chamber Music	2 cr
CFA MP 621 Collaborative Piano Skills	2 cr
CFA MP 720 Accompanying Practicum	2 cr
CFA MP 610 Piano Ensemble	4 cr
Graduate Music electives	6 cr
Total credits	28 cr

Harpsichord

Program of Study

CFA ML 503 Applied Study	12 cr
CFA ML 608 Baroque Chamber Music	4 cr
CFA MP 681 Introduction to the Organ	2 cr
CFA MP 581/2 Continuo ½	4 cr
Approved elective courses	6 cr
Total credits	28 cr

Organ

Program of Study

CFA ML 505 Applied Study	12 cr
CFA ML 608 Baroque Chamber Music	4 cr
CFA MP 682 Harpsichord for Keyboard Majors	2 cr
CFA MP 581/2 Continuo ½	4 cr
Approved elective courses	6 cr
Total credits	28 cr

Voice

Performance Diploma candidates in Voice are encouraged to audition for operatic roles and/or baroque chamber ensemble during full-time semesters. Candidates are also encouraged to pursue outside professional opportunities as appropriate. Foreign students seeking the diploma are required to take CFA MP 231 English Diction as an elective.

Candidates in voice must perform one public recital on campus. Candidates must also complete one of the following performances, the first two on- or off-campus with the approval of the Voice faculty:

• An opera or oratorio role
• A solo performance with orchestra
• An additional public recital at a major off-campus venue

Program of Study

CFA ML 507–08 Applied Music	12 cr
CFA ML 551–552, MP 532 Vocal Coaching	2 cr
CFA MP 606 Opera Theater	2 cr
CFA MP 731 Special Topics in Song Literature	4 cr
Graduate Music electives	8 cr
Total credits	28 cr