Prescreening Recording
Video prescreening recordings are required of all Artist Diploma applicants, including NEC students and alumni. Recordings must be uploaded as digital files to our online application by December 1 and must be produced in accordance with the following guidelines:
- Each piece must be performed in a single, unedited take.
- All tracks must be clearly numbered and labeled with composer's name, title of work, and movement.
- Proper lighting should be used and camera should show full range of movement and use of instrument.
- Recordings should be of the highest quality.
Repertoire should include a complete program demonstrating advanced mastery in performance, musicianship, and interpretation. Please note that while applicants are not selected or rejected based on repertoire alone, the musical choices an applicant makes are considered an important indicator of artistic identity.
Applicants who are invited to the final round must present a live audition at NEC.
Artist Diploma in Opera
The audition program should demonstrate the fullest range of the applicant's artistry. Please include 6 to 8 opera arias in at least 3 different languages. Please do not submit oratorios or art songs.
Artist Diploma in Instrumental Performance
Please choose a varied, recital-length program that best represents you as an artist, displaying musical sensibilities, technical accomplishment, and stylistic awareness.