Artist’s Diploma

  • Certificate
Violinist playing the violin.

Montclair’s Artist's Diploma Certificate is a two-year, post-baccalaureate program for musicians looking to advance their performance career. It develops the technique, artistry, and professionalism of gifted musicians.

Whether you’ve already begun performing or are preparing to launch your career, this 24-credit program helps you develop the technique and artistry needed to succeed in the contemporary music world. The candidate must already have completed a Bachelor’s degree in music.

During the program, you’ll take private lessons, work on solo and chamber music, and perform in full recitals. You’ll get regular feedback from faculty and coaches, helping you refine your skills and grow as a performer. The program also gives you the flexibility to explore areas like music theory, languages, and history, or focus on practical steps to prepare for life as a professional musician.

You’ll also gain important career skills, including preparing for auditions, building performance opportunities, and learning how to work effectively with other musicians. You’ll leave ready to present full recitals and pursue careers as a soloist, chamber musician, or collaborative artist.
If you are looking to build a career in professional performance, then this program is for you.
A student who successfully completes one year of this program and decides not to continue may be eligible to receive a Performer’s Certificate.

Admission Requirements

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Music. Credits from previous study may not be substituted or transferred into the Artist’s Diploma program.
  • Applicants with non-U.S. degrees: Please visit the international applicants page to review U.S. degree equivalency information.

Application Checklist

Application Deadline: Rolling admission.

  1. Online Application: Submit application and $60 non-refundable fee (or waiver if applicable).
  2. Transcript: One from each college attended.
  3. Essay/Statement of Purpose: Please write one integrated essay providing a response to each of the following questions:
    • What are your goals for graduate study and your future career?
    • In what ways do your academic background and your professional experiences provide evidence of your potential for success in the program you selected and in your eventual career? Please give specific examples of relevant coursework and/or experience.
    • Is there any further information we should consider in assessing your candidacy?

Auditions

Auditions for Graduate Music Applicants to this program are required. To register for an audition, you must first submit an application to the Office of Graduate Admissions. Once submitted, a link to the audition registration page will be available to you on the checklist in your application portal. Information regarding the audition/interview requirements, available dates, methods, fees and deadlines can all be found on The Cali School’s Audition Information Page. Please be sure to review the audition information thoroughly to ensure you are fully prepared at the time of your audition.

Related Programs

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