ObjectivesThe Diploma in Advanced Music Performance Studies is intended for the candidate who is interested in developing more concentrated and selected performance skills in an individualized program of guided study. The unique practical emphasis of the program, the high performance standards and advantages of a limited enrollment should make the diploma of interest to experienced professionals and teacher-performers as well as recent graduates. In particular, it will enable the qualified student to concentrate in, relate or combine a variety of specific areas in musical performance. These include studies in repertoire and literature; performance practices; performance theory and analysis; ensemble music and performance styles.
Academic titleAdvance Music Performance Studies Diploma
Course descriptionRequirements for the Diploma
1. Credits. A fully-qualified candidate is required to complete a minimum of 30 credits. Each candidate's program of study will be chosen in consultation with the Graduate Program Director under the guidance of the candidate's Program Advisor. The Program Advisor is a member of the full-time faculty of the music department.
2. Residence. A candidate enrolled on a full-time basis will normally complete the program in two years. Exceptions may be granted by the Graduate Program Director.
3. Recital performances. Each candidate must successfully complete two recital performances (AMPS 520: Recital I and AMPS 530: Recital II, 6 credits each). The recital programs will be chosen in consultation with the candidate's program advisor and approved by the Graduate Programme Director. The program advisor will supervise the preparation of the recitals. Final evaluations will be made by a jury chosen by the Graduate Programme Director. In addition, the candidate is expected to participate in orchestral and ensemble performance.
AMPS 501 Seminar - Workshop in Performance Skills (3 credits)
(This course may be repeated as AMPS 502) An intensive developmental course for individual and group performance. A broad range of subjects will be explored including practice methods, effective rehearsing, repertoire research, program-building, memorization, improvisation, and approaching auditions and competitions.
AMPS 503 String Seminar (3 credits) (This course may be repeated as AMPS 504)
This course examines specific aspects of performance and repertoire studies for stringed instruments. Note: This is a full year course.
AMPS 505 Piano Seminar (3 credits) (This course may be repeated as AMPS 506)
This course examines specific aspects of performance and repertoire studies for piano.
AMPS 507 Voice Seminar (3 credits) (This course may be repeated as AMPS 508)
This course examines specific aspects of performance and repertoire studies for voice.
AMPS 509 Organ and Harpsichord Seminar (3 credits) (This course may be repeated as AMPS 510)
This course examines specific aspects of performance and repertoire studies for organ and harpsichord.
AMPS 511 Chamber Ensemble (3 credits) (This course may be repeated as AMPS 512)
Ensembles work intensively on preparation and presentation of public performances or competitions.
AMPS 513 Orchestra (3 credits) (This course may be repeated as AMPS 514)
Preparation and public performance with orchestra of one or several works as soloist or principal player.
AMPS 515 Performance Practices (3 credits) (This course may be repeated as AMPS 516)
Individual projects in particular aspects of performance practice such as basso continuo, ornamentation, the cadenza, contemporary performance techniques, improvisation.
AMPS 517 Special Project in Music (3 credits) (This course may be repeated as AMPS 518)
Individual projects in music theory, analysis, composition, aesthetics, music history, or inter-disciplinary studies connected with music.
AMPS 519 Recording Production (3 credits)
An audio recording is made in partnership with an advanced recording student. The performer works with an advanced recording student to experiment with various sound recording possibilities, placement and type of microphones, creation of resonance, ambience, "honesty" vs enhancement, etc. Involving several sessions which could include listening to recordings the performer particularly enjoys or dislikes. The advanced recording student is responsible for producing a high-quality digitally edited recording (DAT or CD-R).
AMPS 520 Recital I (6 credits)
AMPS 521 Private Instrumental or Vocal Instruction 1 (3 credits)
Note: This is a full year course.
AMPS 530 Recital II (6 credits)
AMPS 531 Private Instrumental or Vocal Instruction II (3 credits)
Note: This is a full year course.
AMPS 598 Special Topics in Music Performance Studies (3 credits)
AMPS 599 Special Topics in Music Performance Studies (6 credits)