Cyprus Academy of Music
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Established in 1956 by Royal Academy of Music graduate Madam Despo Hadjiloizou-Frangakou, the Cyprus Academy of Music offers austere conservatory education of the highest level based on the Hellenic ten-year system leading to the Professional Diploma of Musical Arts (PDMA). The program is divided into three years of Lower Division, three years of Middle Division, and three years of Higher Division, leading to the completion of the Πτυχίον (Ptyxion, pronounced 'Ptychion'). The final year is devoted entirely to Advanced Performance and Research (APR) in the student's area of concentration. No other courses are to be taken during this final year, as all other degree requirements must be completed by the end of the Ptyxion.
Juries are offered once at the close of every academic year, and grading for both juries and general coursework is on a scale of 1 to 10. The lowest passing grade for Lower and Middle Divisions is 8, and 9 for Higher Division. Perfect 10 is the only acceptable grade for both the Ptyxion and the Professional Diploma of Musical Arts. Although candidates may choose to terminate their studies at the confirmation of the Ptyxion, completion of the PDMA is highly recommended. All coursework is offered in either Greek or English.
Ideal starting point for beginners is as early as age 6, or once the child has entered his/her first year of Elementary School, and no later than age 9. Students who wish to enter the Academy and already have a musical background are given preliminary oral and written examinations as well as performance auditions and are placed into a specific year accordingly. No one can be considered for APR placement before completion of the Ptyxion at the Academy. Minimal stay before completion of the Ptyxion is one academic year.
Students are offered unique solo, chamber, and orchestral performing opportunities at various venues in Europe and abroad, such as the Cyprus Annual Christmas and Religious Song Festival organized by the Nicosia Music Society since 1985. Students may choose to prepare for any of the Academy's internal competitions, or other competitions and festivals worldwide after the Academy's recommendation and approval. Once a year, outstanding Ptyxion and PDMA candidates are invited to teach Lower and Middle Division students for one week and on a full-time basis. Responsibilities during this 'Professional Week' include teaching literature, pedagogy, and performance of their primary area of concentration, as well as Theory (Harmony, Counterpoint, Morphology/Structure of Music) and History of Music.
According to the memoirs of Ancient Greek poets and philosophers the etymology of the word 'music' comes from "Μούσα" (Mousa, Muse), which in turn is made from μα-ούσα (ma-ousa) = Μούσα. Μα (ma) is the root of the verb μάω (mao), which means 'invent', 'create', or 'search intellectually'. We, at the Academy, work closely and methodically to meet each of our students individual needs in order to challenge and develop their talents to the maximum of their abilities. Whether one intends to perform, teach, or both, Cyprus Academy of Music graduates are ready musicians for the professional world. Our aim is to provide the international community with artists of exceptional ethos, musicianship, and sensitivities. The overall atmosphere at the Academy is highly competitive and appropriate only for those pursuing a rounded intellectual excellence.
