<p>^^^
Possible confusion-</p>
<p>“It’s conceivable to achieve an undergrad performance certificate level at Juilliard, Mannes and potentially a few others if I recall.”</p>
<p>Be careful of underestimating the entrance requirements for “non-degree” certificate programs either at the undergraduate or graduate levels. Most (all???) conservatories and some universities offer certificate programs with various school specific titles - Performer’s Certificate, Graduate Diploma, Artist Diploma, Professional Studies Diploma, etc. The audition/playing level admittance standards are HIGHER for such than programs than the corresponding undergraduate B.M. or graduate M.M. degree. programs. </p>
<p>A student hoping to develop basic competence should be looking at the evening programs offered at some schools. (Maybe that’s what Violadad was referring to?) The full time “certificate” program run through the regular conservatory/music school will not be appropriate.</p>