Which schools should one consider for DMA (violin)?

glassharmonica
Sat, 20 Feb 2016 13:58:36 +0000

I think the guidance and encouragement here are at a very high level, especially in comparison to other internet forums. I can tell you, from what know of many of the frequently-posting individuals on this board, there is a huge amount of collective knowledge that is generously shared. Not all advice is one-size-fits-all, and there are bound to be disagreements. In my opinion, the occasional pushback or disagreement is the sign of a healthy, engaged community.

To get into the DMA program for violin at Juilliard, for example, you need to be an astonishingly high-level performer. Most high level performers don’t apply for DMA because it’s an academic degree and they are more interested in performance. Really, it depends on what you are looking for. I thought my own daughter might apply to some AD and/or DMA programs now that she is about to graduate, but she recently cancelled her auditions for these programs because she has other options to pursue for the next year. She might reassess and apply in another year or so, who knows? I have noticed that most of her friends graduating with MM degrees go on to orchestra jobs or freelancing. Those going into DMA programs tend to be looking for more academic-focused careers. That’s likely what the OP’s daughter has in mind. She’s obviously an adult, so whatever opinions other adults share with her mother are likely not to have much sway over her anyway.