Specialisation Course

 

The course consists of two years’ study, divided into four semesters. Admission to the Specialisation Course presupposes the possession of a five-year degree or an earlier degree from an Italian Conservatory in a discipline related to the seven subjects taught at PIMS: Organ, Piano, Gregorian Chant, Vocal Studies, Composition, Choir Direction, Musicology. The course allows the student to specialise in an area of his or her choice, under the guidance of a professor. 

The subject studied is decided after a careful evaluation of each student's prior studies and in consideration of each student’s objectives. Each year, the training in the chosen subject (one of the seven present in the PIMS) and the passing of the prescribed exams, lead to the acquisition of 18 credits to which another 6 credits can be added for the attendance and the completion of each year of the Musicology Course and another 6 credits for other subjects to be chosen and completed in the semester. Consequently, each one-year course involves the acquisition of 30 credits and the completion of the two-year course awards a total of 60 credits. The acquisition of credits in related disciplines taught at PIMS, can be carried out either by attending the course in person or by attending tutorials as agreed to with the relevant professor.

 

Duration

Two years (4 semesters)

Type: Specialisation course

Studies are related to one of the academic courses available at the Institute. 

Articulation: two years


Specialisation course in the chosen discipline and two supplementary courses per year

Supplementary courses


Course chosen from the those taught in the Institute after an interview with the lecturer

Specialisation course

18 annual credits

Supplementary courses   


Total of 12 annual credits

Total credits for each annual course


30 credits

Admission title

Licentiate or equivalent degree related to the specialisation course

Admission

Prior test in the specialisation course 

Advancement to second year

Exam

Attendance 

In person attendance is mandatory for the specialisation classes

Final title

Final certificate indicating the specialisation and supplementary course frequented by the student, with the credits obtained for each Course.

 

Special features and pre-requisites for the Specialisation Course in Organ Improvisation:

The course aims to train the student to develop skills and techniques of organ improvisation. The program will be drawn up according to the candidate's previous experience and training, and judged by the entrance examination and the level the student aims to achieve.

Requirements to take the entrance examination: 

  • Organ competency

  • Knowledge of harmony and counterpoint

 

Admission Examination:

  • Interview with the professor 

  • Performance of some free-choice organ improvisations prepared by the candidate.