Graduate Performance Proficiency
All candidates for music graduate degrees in areas other than music performance are required to demonstrate a minimum level of music performance ability equivalent to the end of the second year for elective undergraduate students in that area.
Please note that this examination is separate and distinct from the Keyboard Proficiency Examination, which is also required.
The performance proficiency examination will be offered in piano on an ad hoc basis, by contacting Dr. David Cartledge.
Students wishing to take the Performance Proficiency examination for a given semester should contact Dr. Cartledge (docartle@indiana.edu) before the beginning of the eighth week of the semester in order to request an examination, and to discuss appropriate repertoire.
It is the student's responsibility to inform their own department of the scheduled exam, so that a faculty member in that department can be present for the exam if desired.
Students should prepare two or three substantial movements or pieces from distinct stylistic periods. An example of minimally acceptable repertoire would be:
- A Clementi Sonatina Allegro movement (for example from Op. 36)
- A Chopin prelude
- A Debussy Arabesque
Other repertoire may be acceptable--it is advisable to contact the department chair by email to determine whether the intended repertoire is appropriate.
It is recommended that students memorize their performance material. While memorization is not required, to perform at least part of the program from memory will reflect positively upon the performance.