Artist Diploma: Jazz and Contemporary Musical Arts
Jazz and contemporary musical arts musicians in the Institute for Concert Artists earn the Artist Diploma, NEC’s highest-level performance designation. Concert Artists deepen their artistry and broaden their musical perspectives with the support of NEC faculty and the ICA’s extensive resources.
Launching in Fall 2025, aspiring jazz and contemporary musical arts musicians will find unparalleled opportunities to cultivate their talent and advance their musical ambitions with the ICA. This unique two-year program offers a blend of mentorship, comprehensive study, and performance platforms. Candidates selected for the Jazz and Contemporary Musical Arts program demonstrate exceptional talent and are poised to embark on remarkable professional journeys, shaping the musical landscape. The ICA is committed to providing them with the necessary tools, mentorship, and connections to thrive in the competitive music industry. AD students are awarded a full-tuition scholarship and an annual stipend.
Featured Faculty
Dominique Eade
Poetic and passionate, American vocalist, composer, and improviser Dominique Eade blends musical virtuosity with a songwriter’s straightforward emotional sensibility, creating music that has garnered critical acclaim, inspired audiences, and served as a creative signpost for generations of singers. The New York Times called Eade “an exceptional singer” with a “wide vocal range and a grasp on the intricacies of style,” one “who weighs a chanteuse’s coolness against a jazz musician’s exploratory instincts.” Eade was signed to RCA Victor in 1998, recording with jazz luminaries Dave Holland, Victor Lewis, and Benny Golson.
Take the Next Step
Audition for the Institute
Are you interested in becoming a Concert Artist? Connect with our admissions team for more information about the application process, audition requirements, and benefits of an NEC education.