Question about Canadian Diploma

June 10, 2005 at 07:30 PM · RCM is not really a diploma in the sense that you could go and get hired by a university with only an RCM diploma.

I have the Performers Associate of the Royal Conservatory of Toronto (Performers ARCT) and that basically means nothing to an institution looking to hire.

The diplomas are a GREAT way to get a head start on theory and history. Mannes is known for it's more intense focus on theory and history in comparison to other conservatories. It apparently has a very difficult entrance exam (again, in comparison). When I was accepted there and took my entrance exams one of the professors took me aside and quietly told me that I had tested into 2nd year hearing, theory and history and that this RARELY happens. He asked where I was from and I told him Canada, to which he responded..."Ah, that explains it. Royal Conservatory right?"

I think that is where the RCM dipolma has it's greatest value.

Preston

June 27, 2011 at 03:06 AM ·

 Considering that the ABRSM only has a testing centre in Richmond, BC Canada I woud say go for the ARCT. In fact a month ago I was at a workshop by the representative of the ABRSM in Canada. An ARCT is not equal to a University Degree, and the chances of someone getting a University or College teaching job with one is slim. You probably could work at a music school with just an ARCT. I've seen many schools hire ARCT holders. Outside of Canada, in the USA the ABRSM is not really that well known to my colleagues and friends there. So the RCM Diploma is probably a better choice. But the people I talk to in the USA are not big fans of the RCMT. Though it has been around for a long time, and the faculty in Toronto are top notich...

June 27, 2011 at 07:23 PM ·

RCM is recognized world-wide as far as I know.  Some American institutions may not 'like' it...but they all have to acknowledge it exists.  Go for RCM if you want to teach at a music school.  But be aware it is a 'stand-alone' diploma if you ever decide to go and get a university degree in music.  It may convert to some class credits taken at various universities, but will not translate fully ...