<p>Too many unknowns here for conjecture. While cello is part of the OP’s username, we can only assume that is the instrument being played.</p>
<p>Steinhardt is a solid program, and NYU has an academic threshold that is not significantly overridden by audition results. Admission to NYU/Steinhardt would therefore indicate a reasonable level of performance proficiency as well as meeting their minimum academic admission standards. Potentially that level of performance talent is competitive in other high quality audition based programs. </p>
<p>We don’t know what program the OP was admitted into at Steinhardt. Nor do we know the root cause(s) for the academic dismissal.</p>
<p>We all know that audition standards for performance majors are at a higher level than other majors, such as music ed, or music business.</p>
<p>We all know ANY audition based program is a crap-shoot, and any number of variables can cause a safety to become a “sorry”.</p>
<p>I deliberately chose to list conservatory/conservatory level institutions where I knew (or reasonably assumed) that a non-degree performance certificate was offered. I did not list other NY state schools beyond Purchase, other public institutions as most of these are academic admits leading to degree programs. Without researching, I doubt many publics offer certificate programs in performance. Possible exceptions could be Indiana/Jacobs and UMich/Ann Arbor.</p>
<p>It’s possible that the OP could seek and gain admission into a fairly non-selective degree program, be it public or private; the issue then becomes the strength of the teacher, the program, and the peer quality. The downsides to a lesser program do not necessarily serve to provide all the skills required for a potential career as a performer, or pave the way for admission into a top notch Artist’s Diploma or Graduate Professional Diploma program.</p>
<p>Any number of issues could have resulted in academic dismissal. Some are short term, situational. Others can be far more deeply rooted. We may never know unless the OP chooses to post the reasons.</p>
<p>Those of us with our own dogs in the race know it’s not an easy path, even for the most dedicated, talented and serious student.</p>
<p>Just my $.02.</p>