studying after masters

[russda_man]

I am in my first year doing a PG dip at the Royal Northern college of Music. I am transfering to Masters in the 2nd year. Since I've never had any conservatoire teaching before, I feel that two years isn't enough. I am working towards a career as a concert pianist, and after I have achieved my masters, I would like to go to London to study for another few years.

I have looked at the RCM website, and the only performance course it offers after Masters, is the Artist Diploma. the Doctor is no good (his tablets don't work! Just kidding!) as that is based more on RESEARCH, and I want something more practical. Does anyone know of any qualifications I could do after Masters, not just in London, but anywhere else in the world?
Thanks

[richard black]

Given the ELQ rule I'd definitely go for private tuition rather than another college. Or even better, just get out there and work.

[russda_man]

Given the ELQ rule I'd definitely go for private tuition rather than another college. Or even better, just get out there and work.

You are probably right, but the problem is I have a domestic upright at home, and I have never been trained on grand pianos, or even proper pianos! So I am going to need at least a few more years. If I can get enough scholarships, bursaries etc. I might just be alright! But thanks for your reply. I havent made my mind up yet.

[russda_man]

Hi if anyone else would like to leave some thoughts I would be very grateful. The more the merrier!

[Bob]

I thought doctorates were still mainly performance for performance.  Yes, research but information you need to know. 

I've seen a lot of people staying on getting a certificate.  I never thought much of certificates.  It's just paper and people won't know what it is or care. 

Why not find a school that does offer the doctorate with performance?  Or get a second masters if that's an option.  If you just want to stick around longer.  Or do the minimum requirements and drag things out so you have more time.  I could see that.  Maybe do the minimum (or less) and start the performing career so when you do graduate, you'll have been there longer and will already have the performance thing going.

Yes... it's that easy.

Don't forget piano pedagogy.  Or accompanying.  I've more elaborate plans for accompanying but not so much for piano pedagogy.  Music ed, yes, but piano ped has been a few extra classes and some supervised teaching -- ie not that much extra and good stuff to have if you're teaching in the future.

You need to get your hands on a grand piano though. 

[richard black]

the problem is I have a domestic upright at home,

So upgrade it! It'll cost you a lot less than a couple of years more at a college. I'd been working professionally as a pianist (not a concert soloist, but I'd had some quite nice accompanying dates at places you've heard of) before I got a grand piano, a very nice upright was all I ever had until a couple of years ago.