This highly selective and unique program is for graduate students who wish to immerse themselves in the instrumental and chamber repertoire. We are the only program in the United States with a purely instrumental focus. In addition to weekly lessons and a bi-monthly studio class, the collaborative practicum is the cornerstone of the program. The intimate size of the conservatory makes it possible to guarantee exposure to every instrument and studio. Students will spend two semesters in strings, one in woodwinds and one in brass and percussion, during which they will play at lessons, studio classes, master classes, Performance Forum, juries, recitals, and other performance opportunities. Faculty make assignments thoughtfully, paying careful attention to individual artistic strengths and repertoire deficiencies.
Available in the Master of Music degree or Professional Performance Certificate programs to six highly qualified candidates.
Chamber music study is a fundamental component in the development of the collaborative artist. Students will be placed in a chamber group every semester and will be encouraged to form additional groups that will be featured in the required degree recitals designed by the candidates themselves. Additionally, the yearly departmental recital will provide a platform for studio performance projects, such as the complete Beethoven Sonatas, as well as the extraordinary opportunity to perform with members of the faculty.
Supplemental coursework includes the innovative Seminar in Collaborative Piano, a yearlong performance/lecture course addressing a wide range of practical, performance and pedagogical issues through lectures and demonstrations given by the instrumental faculty and master classes by guest artists. Collaborative Piano Literature will further students' knowledge of the fundamental repertoire of each instrument in addition to an in-depth survey of the keyboard chamber works.
Instrumental Collaborative Piano Department head Lisa Leonard is joined by the entire conservatory faculty in creating a supportive, focused and inspiring environment in which students will develop and fine-tune the skills required of a successful collaborative artist. Please contact Lisa Leonard with any questions about the program.