<p>violadad, thanks for all your insight and direction. you’re knowledge, particularly of everything seemingly discussed on this board is extraordinary.</p>
<p>the university i was referring to is ohio state university. i don’t believe its a ‘go-to program’. even so, i believe, and you reassured, it could only help to take courses there. you said theory differs in sequence. i would have the ability to take theory I-VI (2 years; 6 quarters) which is as high as it goes (apart from counterpoint and ‘theory and analysis’ classes. in which case, would it be similar to other ‘go-to’ programs?</p>
<p>as far as music history, i don’t think i’ll have time to take courses at the university. but there seem to be quite a few books on the subject, and it seems, to me at least, like that would be an appropriate way to learn that material.</p>
<p>the other courses i was considering taking are ear training (through VI; complements the theory), studies in counterpoint, and composition I. again, i can’t imagine that it would hurt to take these classes here, but i am new to the process.</p>
<p>you said you weren’t sure of what i was trying to say when you quoted me, so let me try to rephrase: if the courses in theory, ear training, etc. are similar in quality (with perhaps outside, individual study) to those at conservatory-type programs, would it make sense to take these courses in the time i have now (and for free) and then apply to a diploma-type program to refine playing skill and technique?</p>
<p>i haven’t quite waded through all the threads you’ve listed; hopefully i can get those read tonight and this weekend. and again, thanks!</p>