In the first two years, freshman and sophomore levels, the focus is primarily on building a solid piano technique, establishing a practicing routine with scales and arpeggios, and developing the use of arm weight and finger independence. Each semester a number of pieces will be learned and performed in student recitals. At the end of the second year the student will perform a ca. 45 minute recital - a proficiency examination to include pieces from four styles to be at least of the level of the audition requirement repertoire - which will determine whether progress has been satisfactory and, if successful, permit continuation in the 310V course level (see degree requirements).  At the end of the third year a recital of ca. 60 minutes is required (junior recital). At the end of the fourth year a full length evening recital with intermission is required (ca. 75 minutes, senior recital). Program notes or a spoken introduction to the music selection is encouraged. The program for each performance should be completely memorized 2 weeks before each performance; for the two degree recitals, a play trough of the whole program will be held one week before the performance.

In the first year a recital of ca. 60 minutes length is encouraged. A full length chamber music recital is required, as well as a full length graduate recital (75 min.). Program notes or a spoken introduction to the music selection is encouraged. A juried comprehensive exam at the end of the second year is required and additionally a 20 to 50 page essay on a subject of individual choice (with consultation) will be written.