This program is designed for the student who wants a more regimented training, possibly for future achievement in music, and not ruling out a future career in music. It also serves as a springboard for a well-rounded conservatory-type training. Some families or students prefer more structure in order to form well-established goals and gain a sense of accomplishment. This is something the CAM does better than any other comparable music institution in the Pacific Northwest. By enrolling in the program, students will be well-prepared for almost any challenge through carefully projected goals, a solid technique, and confidence in performance.
In this program, the teacher prepares a projection of requirements in five-month terms, generally working up to the next exam date, of which there are two scheduled per year. Requirements include the amount and scope of technical exercises, including scales and etudes, and a well-rounded repertoire spanning the various style periods. During December and May, the student prepares for a juried exam during which he/she performs a selection for faculty. The faculty, by default, do not grade the exams, but instead make comments to help the student better improve.
Students in this program can take part in more organized performance opportunities, including festivals and competitions, and the annual Honor’s Recital. At minimum, the student must be able to play two-octave scales hands together and easier minuets from the Notebook for A. Magdalena, and practice 45-minutes daily and a minimum lesson duration of 45-minutes weekly is required to enroll in the program.