Performance

As a student majoring in performance, you will declare a principal instrument.  Select a category to explore further:

• Bass
• Brass
• Ear Training
• Ensembles
• Guitar
• Percussion
• Piano
• Strings
• Voice
• Woodwinds

The performance program will teach you skills, concepts, and methodology sufficient to demonstrate a level of proficiency on your principal instrument typical of that generally required in professional performance. This is achieved through private lessons, which include proficiency-based final exams, instrumental or vocal labs, and performance studies classes.

To demonstrate mastery of these skills, you will complete a performance portfolio, including a senior recital, that typifies current professional performance standards. You will also:

• Attend recital classes and take specialized courses in ear training and harmonic applications designed to develop improvisational skills;
• Have the opportunity to attend classes given by visiting master performers;
• Develop an aesthetic and critical understanding of the meaning of quality performance;
• Learn to use technical and interpretive musical criteria and to apply them to your work and to that of others;
• Work effectively with others in situations typically found in the professional performance field;
• Participate in ensembles and public performances in the college's recital halls and at the Berklee Performance Center; and
• Explore activities available through the ensemble program such as recording sessions, concerts, festivals, and tours.

Upon completing the major, you will have developed a theoretical, conceptual, and philosophical background in the area of musical performance that will enable you to quickly adapt to changes in the professional music environment.