Undergraduate degrees in Collaborative Piano

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The Bachelor of Music in Collaborative Piano is grounded on an applied major in piano. Each student is expected to develop a musical and technical approach that demonstrates performing ability at a level compatible with the demands of the curriculum. Major piano study is complemented with four semesters of minor study in a secondary applied area, such as harpsichord, organ, jazz piano or voice. The program of study is supported by a core of music theory, music literature and history and non-music courses necessary for both the development of professional competence and admission to graduate schools.

The successful collaborative pianist must be familiar with the repertoire of many instruments and the stylistic idioms of all eras. Therefore, the program includes courses in singers' diction and literature (British and American English, French, German, Italian and Spanish), opera literature, piano solo and chamber literature and accompanying fundamentals.

Music electives include courses in the history of the piano and pedagogy as well as courses focusing on the literature of various instruments, conducting, instrumentation, arranging, and form and analysis. Complementing the program are general education studies in English, foreign language, philosophy or religion, social and behavioral science, mathematics, art and dance.

Accompanists are also trained as solo performers. The development of solo performance skills is carefully nurtured through a series of experiences that begins with performances in studio classes and progresses through appearances in Keyboard Division recitals, Conservatory Performance Forums and a 30-minute solo recital in the junior year. This degree culminates in two full accompanying/chamber music recitals in the senior year.

The specialized coursework in accompanying is augmented by many opportunities for practical experience. The Accompanying Ensemble provides experience accompanying applied lessons in teaching studios and in a variety of chamber ensembles, student recitals, music theatre productions and operas. Additional experience can be gained by accompanying choral ensembles, Opera Workshop, voice diction and literature classes, and in performances with the Wind Ensemble or Symphony Orchestra.

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