Department Website
Program Description
This 18-credit post-master’s artist diploma in Classical Instrumental Performance addresses the specific needs of advanced students and young professionals preparing for a career in music performance. The program includes ongoing development of technique and musicianship, with an emphasis placed on private lessons, ensemble participation, and preparation for professional auditions and competitions. Course work allows students to focus on their primary area of study while preparing for a wide range of professional opportunities.
The advanced diploma is available in four program areas:
- Brass Studies
- Percussion Studies
- String Studies
- Woodwind Studies
Admissions
Admission to graduate programs in the Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development requires the following minimum components:
- Résumé/CV
- Statement of Purpose
- Letters of Recommendation
- Transcripts
- Proficiency in English
See NYU Steinhardt's Graduate Admissions website for additional information on school-wide admission. Some programs may require additional components for admissions.
See How to Apply for admission requirements and instructions specific to this program.
Program Requirements
Course List
| Course |
Title |
Credits |
| 1 | 6 |
| 11 |
| 1 |
| Total Credits | 18 |
Graduate Musical Theory and History Requirements
Proficiency in music theory and history is a requirement for all graduate students in the NYU Steinhardt Department of Music and Performing Arts Professions. The music theory and history requirements outlined here apply to all students enrolling in Masters, PhD, DMA, or Advanced Certificate/Diploma programs in the following areas:
- Instrumental Performance (String Studies, Woodwind Studies, Brass Studies, Percussion Studies, and Jazz)
- Music Composition (Concert Music, Songwriting, and Screen Scoring)
- Music Education
- Music Technology
- Piano Studies
- Vocal Performance
- Music Therapy
Students applying to the Masters, PhD, or Advanced Certificate/Diploma programs who have completed a music degree in the Department of Music and Performing Arts Professions at NYU Steinhardt within the last five years are exempt from the music theory and history entrance requirements. This exemption is granted based on 1) passing scores on prior MPAP music theory and history entrance exams, or 2) successful completion of prior remedial coursework required by former placement exam scores. All DMA applicants are required to take the exam regardless of prior degrees from the department.
Music Theory Diagnostic Exam
Graduate students in music must complete a music theory diagnostic exam at any point before registering for the first semester of coursework. DMA applicants are required to complete the exam as part of the application process, no later than the first week of December for Fall enrollment.
The diagnostic exam gauges students’ knowledge of written theory, aural theory, and sight-singing. Students who do not pass the exam (or portions thereof) will be required to complete a maximum of four credits from the courses listed below, assigned in accordance with their exam results:
Music History Requirement
Students who have completed a minimum of two music history courses (equivalent to two 2-credit history courses at NYU) as part of their undergraduate or graduate degrees prior to arrival are exempt from supplemental coursework in music history.
Evaluation of course equivalence will be completed by the student’s academic program based on student transcripts. History courses must have been completed within the last five years for Masters and Advanced Certificate/Diploma programs and within the last 7 years for doctoral programs.
Students missing this foundational coursework must complete up to two 2-credit music history courses offered through the Music and Performing Arts Department. Students should consult with their advisors on the most appropriate music history courses for their degree program.
Additional Information
Courses taken to satisfy a proficiency requirement are supplemental to those required by any graduate degree program. Remedial courses cannot be used to meet degree requirements.
Graduate Remedial Coursework
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the program, graduates will:
- Students will demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of music literature and history, theory, pedagogy, and performance practice.
- Students will be able to develop individualized interpretations of musical works based upon their ability to synthesize their accumulated musicianship and scholarship.
- Students will be able to design, conduct, and communicate – in both written and oral formats – scholarship related to the field of music performance.
Policies
NYU Policies
University-wide policies can be found on the New York University Policy pages.
Steinhardt Academic Policies
Additional academic policies can be found the Steinhardt academic policies page.