Program Overview

Orchestral Studies Program

The Certificate in Orchestral Studies is a highly focused, one-year program designed for instrumentalists who already hold a music degree and are ready to immerse themselves in advanced orchestral training. This selective and intensive program consists only of performance-related coursework, allowing students to concentrate fully on refining their craft.

About the Certificate

The program prepares students for auditions, ensemble work, and the realities of life as a career orchestral musician. With two hours of weekly one-on-one instruction from expert faculty, students will sharpen their technical precision, expand their orchestral repertoire, and deepen their understanding of the demands and nuances of professional orchestral playing.

Audition Requirements

Applicants must complete the graduate application and perform an audition. The audition requires:

• A solo piece of the student's choice
• Three standard orchestral excerpts of the student's choice The Certificate in Orchestral Studies is available for the following instruments:
  • Bassoon
  • Cello
  • Clarinet
  • Double Bass
  • Flute
  • Harp
  • Horn
  • Oboe
  • Percussion
  • Trombone/Euphonium
  • Trumpet
  • Tuba
  • Viola
  • Violin

Degree Requirements

The certificate in Orchestral Studies consists of 18 total credit hours taken over the course of one year. Students will take:

• Weekly one-hour lessons on their applied instrument
• A second weekly lesson focusing specifically on orchestral repertoire

Program Overview

The Certificate in Orchestral Studies is designed for musicians with serious aspirations in orchestral performance. Upon completion of the program, students will graduate with elevated performance skills, a clearer artistic voice, and a stronger foundation to succeed in the competitive world of professional orchestras.