Juilliard Historical Performance
Newly established, Juilliard Historical Performance provides a comprehensive course of study for exceptional graduate-level musicians who have a special interest in period- instrument performance. With an emphasis on music from the High Baroque through the early Classical eras performed on period-appropriate instruments, the program brings together some of the most prominent period-instrument performers, scholars, and teachers in the world.  (Read bios of our faculty members.)

Under the artistic leadership of Baroque violinist Monica Huggett, the performance-oriented curriculum fosters an informed, vital understanding of the many issues unique to period-instrument performance with the level of technical excellence and musical integrity for which Juilliard is renowned. 

Eligible instruments are: Baroque violin, cello, and double bass; flute, oboe, and bassoon; and harpsichord. The M.M. degree requires a two-year residency; the Graduate Diploma program with a major in Historical Performance is a two-year, non-degree course of study (i.e., no requirement of graduate electives).

Juilliard Historical Performance offers:

• Two-year Master of Music or Graduate Diploma curriculum
• Guaranteed full-tuition scholarships
• Access to Juilliard's growing collection of rare strings, period winds, and historical keyboards
• Annual residencies from esteemed visiting artists William Christie and Jordi Savall
• A specialized, performance-based curriculum
• Regular performance opportunities at Lincoln Center and the New York metropolitan area

Juilliard Historical Performance Curriculum
In addition to with weekly private lessons, Historical Performance majors take a roster of classes that focus on the necessary tools for achieving technical facility and stylistic fluency. Throughout their time at Juilliard, Historical Performance majors are encouraged to become versatile, self-sufficient musicians whose performances reflect a desire for excellence through and understanding of musical and cultural contexts. (See an outline of the Historical Performance curriculum and view course descriptions.)

Performance Opportunities

All Historical Performance majors have frequent and regular opportunities to perform in a variety in venues.  In addition to a required graduation recital, key performance opportunities include:

• Juilliard Period-Instrument Ensemble, led by Monica Huggett and other renowned period-instrument specialists, performs a wide range of music on historically-accurate instruments many times per year, including one performance in Alice Tully Hall
• Visiting Artists William Christie and Jordi Savall offer intensive, repertoire-focused annual residencies that culminate in public performances
• Master classes with renowned guests artists such as Emma Kirkby and members of Les Arts Florissants bring diverse perspectives to the course of study
• Student-Led Chamber Music Groups are prepared for performance through individualized coachings with the Historical Performance faculty 
• Collaborations with Juilliard Vocal Arts offer ample opportunities to explore the rich repertoire of early vocal music

In addition, the full resources of Juilliard and the unique place it occupies in the musical life of New York City will be available to students in Historical Performance. With more than 700 performances each year in dance, drama, and music, Juilliard provides an unparalleled environment for learning and exploration.