Classical music voice teachers or from completion of a formal program offered by a Conservatory, college or university, such as a Bachelor of Music or Master of Music degree (which includes individual lessons from professors). In classical music, "...extensive formal music education and training, often to postgraduate [Master's degree] level" is required. Performance of classical music repertoire requires a proficiency in sight-reading and ensemble playing, harmonic principles, strong ear training (to correct and adjust pitches by ear), knowledge of performance practice (e.g., Baroque ornamentation), and a familiarity with the style/musical idiom expected for a given composer or musical work (e.g., a Brahms
An American Requiem including renowned tenor Robert Breault and baritone Simon Estes, and the Arlington Symphony conducted by the composer himself, delivered memorable concerts. Trey Graham, music critic of the "Washington Post", wrote a favorable review. One of the two that took place in New York was captured on television and subsequently broadcast over the next three years on more than 80 PBS stations across the United States. Norman Scribner, founder of the Choral Arts Society of Washington, sent a vibrant letter of support (February 20, 1996) and offered to present "An American Requiem" to the Pulitzer Prize in Music. In 1996, the