The Artist Diploma has a credit requirement that's very flexible. It's also a very closed program, however, in that not many people are admitted. And the people who are admitted are the people we perceive to be most nearly ready to go out and create a career with their singing or playing. The program places particular emphasis on the training of viable professional soloists. The only other requirements for admission are an earned bachelor's degree and prodigious talent.
Successful applicants pass through a two-tiered screening process.
They must first perform a live or taped audition for the faculty of the appropriate department. With that faculty's endorsement, they may then perform for a panel representing the entire music division, a group that typically convenes twice a year. We'll usually hear no more than six people, and of those, maybe two or three will be admitted to the program. This selectivity helps the Artist Diploma retain its international reputation, she says. Sonata No. 1 for Violin and Piano in F minor, Op.