New-York tribune. [volume] (New York [N.Y.]) 1866-1924, 1911-09-16

characteristic one, 1Or the reason tndt Oh the
theory it embodies the signal success Of the
institute has been achieved. And this success
has been indicative of much. The United States
is longer playing second to the great mu-
steal institutions of the Older countries and
their undeniable advantages. To-day the Amer
lean student may really obtain superior mu-
steal education without leaving his native land.
Within the last seven years there has been
an awakening among those who have at heart
the best interests Of musical America 1t
appreciated that there really was no reason
why we should not at least rival foreign insti-
tutions If not surpass them. This was not
being done except in remote cases and then in
half-hearted manner. That change was
imperative to the end of generally higher mu-
steal standard was seen, and effort was begun
to bring 1t about.
The effort took initial form in the organiZa-
ton of the Institute Of Musical Art, and what
it has accomplished is sample of what may
be done generally within a few years, and is
therefore worthy Of chronicle. Endowed by
James Loeb and directed by Mr.. Damrosch,
with a faculty Of the best teachers to be OBJ
tanned here and abroad and along ideas which
gu: ky demonstrated its worth. Ii begins its
seventh year on October with full compile
ment of students and long waiting list of APP
plicants for admission.
Following the arrangement made with Mr..
Loeb in 1905 Mr. Damrosch set out for Europe
to get the best features Of the great conserva-
tories. Re returned filled with enthusiasm TO
found an institution which has thriven since
its opening day. The endeavor Of the directo-
rate has been not to get more pupils but better
ones Before an applicant can matricuate he
,r she must pass rigid examination before Mr..
Damrosch himself to fitness and ability.
Personal Supervision Always.
This personal supervision extends through the
entire course. Twice a year Mr.. Damrosch per-
sOnally examines each pupil and marks him on
these examinations, averaging them with the
| examinations given by the other teachers. This
system Of instruction Is individual except on
theoretic subjects European schools fail ut
terly to give pupils balanced musical educa-
ton. for they allow them to study for certain
ends without correlating them with other
branches Of music The Institute of Musical Art
requires pupil in vocal culture to study the
piano as well for the purpose Of better musi-
cianship.
In the institute there is competition for
prizes. Mr.. Damrosch believes it causes the
bending OF the energies Of "A pupil toward one
subject to the neglect Of all around training. In
place of this. silver medals are awarded to grad
yates from the artist courses who rank high.
The agreement which has been made between
the Metropolitan Opera House. through Mr.
Gatti-Casazza and the institute whereby pupils
of the schools opera classes are to have the
privilege of attending dress rehearsals Of the
opera and of beginning their careers there when
found capable is causing widespread interest
This arrangement, added to instruction by world
famous teachers, presents the greatest oppor-
tunity ever offered to talented singers to pre-
pare for an operate career. Nine. Ternina and
NJ. Graudet are in charge of the opera tic classes
at the school.