Artist Diploma (Institute for Concert Artists)

These audition requirements apply to all string applicants in violin, viola, cello, double bass, harp, and guitar.

Prescreening:

Video prescreening recordings are required of all Artist Diploma (Institute for Concert Artists) 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 movement 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.

Prescreening 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.

Please record and submit videos of the following:

• A varied, full recital-length program that best represents you as an artist, displaying musical sensibilities, technical accomplishment, and stylistic awareness, and
• A full concerto (all movements, including any cadenzas) with accompaniment.

Live Audition:

The NEC Artist Diploma offers transformative training for artists as both recitalists and soloists. Finalists will present their auditions (with pianists) in Jordan Hall before a panel of distinguished external artists and musical leaders.

Candidates should prepare a 60-minute recital program (may include a concerto) that demonstrates both artistic vision and technical mastery. From this program, the panel will select approximately 25 minutes of repertoire, which will be communicated to the candidate twenty-four hours in advance of the audition. Candidates may choose the order of the selected works, and each audition should be approached as a complete recital performance.

Following the audition, candidates will also participate in a live interview with the panel.