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About the Certificate Program
The Certificate Program challenges each student to read, write, and hear the
language of music with a high level of literacy. This tuition-free program
for high school students includes intensive study in theory and musicianship,
keyboard, and chamber music in addition to regular lessons and orchestra membership.
Students successfully completing the two-year course receive certificates
of their accomplishment at graduation recognized by leading music schools.
Participation in the program is encouraged for students planning a musical
career as well as those who want a deeper understanding of music to enhance
their adult life. Classes are held on Thursday late afternoons - evenings
and begin in September.
Download
brochure.
Calendar/chamber events
Additional information
Photos
and video
Curriculum
Faculty
Application
process
Certificate Program Schedule
Application process
1) Application forms are available at the office, or for download here.
2) Write a 200 word essay expressing your interest in the program and what you foresee, at this time, as the importance of music in your life.
3) Submit application, essay, and $40 annual registration fee no later
than Fall registration.
Certificate Program Faculty
Daniel
HouglumDaniel Houglum is currently in the Ph.D. in Music Composition program at the University of Iowa. He received his B.A. degree from Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington and his M.M. degree from Northern Illinois University. Daniel has taught courses at Kishwaukee College and continues to serve the University of Iowa as a theory and aural skills teaching assistant. He remains active as a classical and jazz pianist.
Winter chamber music
Coming soon.
Curriculum
Download
brochure.
Eligibility and Cost:
All students in grades 9 through 11 who have completed the Intermediate
Level on their primary instrument may apply for admission. The two-year
courses begin in each odd-numbered year, with a maximum enrollment of twenty
four students. Beginning the program at freshman or sophomore year is recommended.
Tuition is covered by the Certificate Program Fund, a gift from Alexandra Velay of Philadelphia. Students pay a registration fee of $40 each year of the program and purchase their own materials.
Students who wish to register for single courses within the Certificate Program are assessed the regular tuition costs.
Required Courses for the Two Year Program:
1) Private Instrumental Lessons *
2) Preucil School String Orchestra or Piano Master Class *
3) Literature and Materials of Music (26 weeks per year)
4) Class Piano for non-pianists (26 weeks per year)
5) Chamber Music (14 week second semester)
6) A solo or partner recital, performed before March of Senior year.
* tuition not included in grant
Necessary Student Commitment:
Since students are recipients of a substantial scholarship, good intent
to finish the two-year program to the best of their ability is expected.
1) Regular attendance - More than 4 absences in any class (each year) result in being dropped from the program. Two times tardy equal one absence. Assignments must be completed for missed classes. (If Certificate Program Coordinator is notified as least two weeks before a conflicting high school music event, our classes will be rescheduled.)
2) Preparation - Homework of up to 2 hours and daily practice for Piano Class is expected to be carefully completed each week. Students may remain in the program with minimum grades of 75%, but an 88% average is required to receive the Certificate.
3) Instrumental Practice - Students should challenge themselves to practice 10 hours per week, and not less than 8 hours. This amount of practice should make it possible to fill the repertoire requirements for the Certificate. Students who wish to graduate with performance honors should practice 2-3 hours daily.
Evaluation:
A progress report will be mailed each December and May.
Presentation of Certificates:
Certificates will be presented at the Senior Graduation Recital according
to the following levels of accomplishment:
1) Certificate of Participation in Musical Studies.
a) completion of courses with minimum grades of 88%
b) performance on a partner recital or submission of 500 word essay on an
assigned subject
2) Certificate of Excellence in Musicianship.
a) see 1a above
b) completion of Advanced Level instrumental requirements by March 1 of
Senior Year
c) performance on partner recital
3) Certificate of Excellence with Performance Honors
a) see 1a above
b) completion of pre-professional instrumental requirements before Senior
year. Playing must show refinement of tone, intonation, technique and communicate
sensitivity and expression
c) performance of a solo recital before graduation
How to Apply for the Certificate Program:
1) Application forms are available at the office.
2) Write a 200 word essay expressing your interest in the program and what you foresee, at this time, as the importance of music in your life.
3) Submit application, essay, and $40 annual registration fee no later than Fall registration.