What is Certification?
Unlike degree programs, our certification programs are shorter and focus on practical, career-oriented skills outcomes. Many church musicians do not need an academic degree, making certification a more accessible and relevant option. It is an organized, comprehensive study that is directly focused on what you need to do your job in a church setting. It includes coursework, private lessons, liturgical resources training, assessments, and mentoring from faculty with extensive experience in sacred music. Upon successful completion, you will receive a certificate that demonstrates your proficiency, along with a video portfolio. Certification is ideal for individuals seeking to enhance their skills, transition into a new career, or meet the requirements for a new or existing position.
Music Director Certification
Unlike degree programs, our certification programs are shorter and focus on practical, career-oriented skills outcomes. Many church musicians do not need an academic degree, making certification a more accessible and relevant option. It is an organized, comprehensive study that is directly focused on what you need to do your job in a church setting. It includes coursework, private lessons, liturgical resources training, assessments, and mentoring from faculty with extensive experience in sacred music. Upon successful completion, you will receive a certificate that demonstrates your proficiency, along with a video portfolio. Certification is ideal for individuals seeking to enhance their skills, transition into a new career, or meet the requirements for a new or existing position.
​
A Church Music Director oversees the music ministry of a parish or congregation, planning and leading music for worship services. They select appropriate hymns, psalms, chants, and choral pieces, direct choirs and instrumentalists, coordinate rehearsals, and often collaborate closely with clergy to ensure the music aligns with the liturgical calendar and theological themes. They usually run the entire music program as well as play the Organ.
Below is the semester breakdown for the Music Director Certification. Click on the title of each class or lesson for more detailed information. Each semester includes mentoring sessions and an assessment of progress. The semester breakdown is a suggested course of study. This can be adjusted individually based on each student's needs. Upon completing the certification, the student will have a video resume demonstrating competence in sacred music.
​
SEMESTER 1
​This course provides an overview of music's foundational components, including notation, intervals, key signatures, harmonic analysis and realization, and figured bass.
​
​This course provides a survey of the historical role of music in worship from its roots in the Old Testament to the present day, exploring landmark repertoire within the framework of turning points in ecclesiastical history. While the class will focus primarily on Christian music in the western world, cross-cultural influences will also be explored.
​
There are 15 lessons for the fall and winter semesters and 10 lessons for the summer semester.
​
SEMESTER 2
This course builds upon the fundamental skills and concepts explored in Theory I; therefore, some prior knowledge of the subject matter is required. Topics include: harmonic analysis, seventh chords, harmonization of melodies, transposition, modulation to closely related keys, non-harmonic tones, modes and neumes, basics of counterpoint, and musical forms.
​
This three-part class assists the sacred musicians to be successful in their work. Each unit is self-contained, but together, they will provide you with tools and knowledge to address many common extra-musical challenges that arise within church music programs.
-
Interpersonal Skills
-
Church Documents Pertaining to Sacred Music and Organic Development of Music in the Church
-
Liturgical Music Resources and Planning
​
​There are 15 lessons for the fall and winter semesters and 10 lessons for the summer semester.
​
At least 15 voice lessons are required. Students must pass a proficiency for this portion of the certification. The proficiency standards are based on previous experience and career goals.​​
​
SEMESTER 3
This course provides a more advanced exploration of musical form and analysis, as well as practical aural skills training specifically developed for church musicians.
​
This class offers an introduction to choral conducting techniques. Students will explore conducting gestures, diction for the church musician, choral technique, basics of vocal pedagogy, and choral repertoire.
​
​There are 15 lessons for the fall and winter semesters and 10 lessons for the summer semester.
​
SEMESTER 4
This advanced course in choral conducting encompasses score study and practical experience as a conductor and a member of a choral ensemble. This practicum class will emphasize accessible and masterwork pieces for choirs. The course concludes with a concert performed by the students, accompanied by a professional choral ensemble. TThis course may be taken either in person or online.
​
This course introduces a wide variety of organ repertoire through various historical periods. The focus will be on organ repertoire from the 17th century through today. Aspects of performance such as style, ornamentation, and registration will also be focused on, with special attention given to registration on smaller instruments. This course aims to introduce both the pillars of the repertoire and lesser-known examples. Accessible, high-quality repertoire will be introduced to hopefully aid students in the selection of voluntaries for church services.
​
​There are 15 lessons for the fall and winter semesters and 10 lessons for the summer semester.
​
SEMESTER 5
The primary goal of this course is to honor the work of the Holy Spirit in over three thousand years of congregational song. The secondary goals are to help us grow as worshipers and select appropriate songs in various settings. To achieve this, the student will explore the history, theological themes, and literary structure of hymns, focusing on the interaction between text and tune. Students will be expected to memorize the first stanza of an assigned hymn each week to establish a foundation of historical references.
​
Gregorian Chant for Beginners**
This course is designed for novices in singing and reading chant. It will introduce students to the historical and musical significance of Gregorian Chant, describe its function in the liturgy, explore modes and neumes, and discuss resources and strategies for implementing chant in parishes that are unaccustomed to its use. The course will include both prerecorded lectures and live discussion/practice sessions.​
​
​There are 15 lessons for the fall and winter semesters and 10 lessons for the summer semester.
​
SEMESTER 6
Dr. Jason Keefer presents a variety of practical liturgical improvisation techniques to encourage creativity in student organists. This capstone course is designed for experienced musicians at the end of the certification process.
​
This course explores the choral music that has been created over the ages for the enrichment of the liturgy and the praise of the almighty God. The course intends to demonstrate the vast riches of the patrimony of church music available to the music directors of both large and small churches. Emphasis is placed on the correct informed historical performance and the liturgical positioning of the pieces covered in the course. It is structured according to the liturgical year.​​
​
​There are 15 lessons for the fall and winter semesters and 10 lessons for the summer semester.
​
​
​​​
*Students who excel at the theory placement exam may substitute an advanced topics-based directed study or chant course
**More experienced students may substitute Intermediate and/or Advanced Gregorian Chant
***There is a repertoire requirement for certification based on previous experience and career goals.
Choir Director Certification
Unlike degree programs, our certification programs are shorter and focus on practical, career-oriented skills outcomes. Many church musicians do not need an academic degree, making certification a more accessible and relevant option. It is an organized, comprehensive study that is directly focused on what you need to do your job in a church setting. It includes coursework, private lessons, liturgical resources training, assessments, and mentoring from faculty with extensive experience in sacred music. Upon successful completion, you will receive a certificate that demonstrates your proficiency, along with a video portfolio. Certification is ideal for individuals seeking to enhance their skills, transition into a new career, or meet the requirements for a new or existing position.
​
The Choir Director plays a crucial role in shaping the musical life of the parish, guiding the choir in rehearsals and liturgies to ensure that the music is both beautiful and fitting for worship. Through skilled leadership and pastoral sensitivity, the choir director helps elevate the liturgy, enrich the spiritual life of the assembly, and uphold the Church’s rich tradition of sacred choral music. They usually work with the organist, and when there is no Music Director, they may sometimes oversee the music program.
Below is the semester breakdown for the Choir Director Certification. Click on the title of each class or lesson for more detailed information. Each semester includes mentoring sessions and an assessment of progress. The semester breakdown is a suggested course of study. This can be adjusted individually based on each student's needs. Upon completing the certification, the student will have a video resume demonstrating competence in sacred music.
​
SEMESTER 1
​This course provides an overview of music's foundational components, including notation, intervals, key signatures, harmonic analysis and realization, and figured bass.
​
​This course provides a survey of the historical role of music in worship from its roots in the Old Testament to the present day, exploring landmark repertoire within the framework of turning points in ecclesiastical history. While the class will focus primarily on Christian music in the western world, cross-cultural influences will also be explored.
​
There are 15 lessons for the fall and winter semesters and 10 lessons for the summer semester.
​
SEMESTER 2
This course builds upon the fundamental skills and concepts explored in Theory I; therefore, some prior knowledge of the subject matter is required. Topics include: harmonic analysis, seventh chords, harmonization of melodies, transposition, modulation to closely related keys, non-harmonic tones, modes and neumes, basics of counterpoint, and musical forms.
​
This three-part class assists the sacred musicians to be successful in their work. Each unit is self-contained, but together, they will provide you with tools and knowledge to address many common extra-musical challenges that arise within church music programs.
-
Interpersonal Skills
-
Church Documents Pertaining to Sacred Music and Organic Development of Music in the Church
-
Liturgical Music Resources and Planning
​​
There are 15 lessons for the fall and winter semesters and 10 lessons for the summer semester.
​
SEMESTER 3
This course provides a more advanced exploration of musical form and analysis, as well as practical aural skills training specifically developed for church musicians.
​
This class offers an introduction to choral conducting techniques. Students will explore conducting gestures, diction for the church musician, choral technique, basics of vocal pedagogy, and choral repertoire.
​
There are 15 lessons for the fall and winter semesters and 10 lessons for the summer semester.
​
SEMESTER 4
This advanced course in choral conducting encompasses score study and practical experience as a conductor and a member of a choral ensemble. This practicum class will emphasize accessible and masterwork pieces for choirs. The course concludes with a concert performed by the students, accompanied by a professional choral ensemble. This course may be taken either in person or online.​
​
There are 15 lessons for the fall and winter semesters and 10 lessons for the summer semester.
​
SEMESTER 5
The primary goal of this course is to honor the work of the Holy Spirit in over three thousand years of congregational song. The secondary goals are to help us grow as worshipers and select appropriate songs in various settings. To achieve this, the student will explore the history, theological themes, and literary structure of hymns, focusing on the interaction between text and tune. Students will be expected to memorize the first stanza of an assigned hymn each week to establish a foundation of historical references.
​
Gregorian Chant for Beginners**
This course is designed for novices in singing and reading chant. It will introduce students to the historical and musical significance of Gregorian Chant, describe its function in the liturgy, explore modes and neumes, and discuss resources and strategies for implementing chant in parishes that are unaccustomed to its use. The course will include both prerecorded lectures and live discussion/practice sessions.​
​
There are 15 lessons for the fall and winter semesters and 10 lessons for the summer semester.
​
SEMESTER 6
​
This course explores the choral music that has been created over the ages for the enrichment of the liturgy and the praise of the almighty God. The course intends to demonstrate the vast riches of the patrimony of church music available to the music directors of both large and small churches. Emphasis is placed on the correct informed historical performance and the liturgical positioning of the pieces covered in the course. It is structured according to the liturgical year.​​
​
This course in Gregorian chant will begin with the reading and singing of the simplest chants and the study of their liturgical function, incorporating chants of increasing difficulty for the priest, congregation, and choir in both English and Latin. In all of these areas, the study will progress through chants of increasing complexity, including prayers from the priest, versicles and responses exchanged between the priest and congregation, chants for the Ordinary of the Mass in English and Latin for the congregation, and chants for the proper of the Mass in English for the choir.​​
​
There are 15 lessons for the fall and winter semesters and 10 lessons for the summer semester.
​
​
​​​
*Students who excel at the theory placement exam may substitute an advanced topics-based directed study or chant course
**More experienced students may substitute Intermediate and/or Advanced Gregorian Chant
***There is a repertoire requirement for certification based on previous experience and career goals.
Organist Certification
Unlike degree programs, our certification programs are shorter and focus on practical, career-oriented skills outcomes. Many church musicians do not need an academic degree, making certification a more accessible and relevant option. It is an organized, comprehensive study that is directly focused on what you need to do your job in a church setting. It includes coursework, private lessons, liturgical resources training, assessments, and mentoring from faculty with extensive experience in sacred music. Upon successful completion, you will receive a certificate that demonstrates your proficiency, along with a video portfolio. Certification is ideal for individuals seeking to enhance their skills, transition into a new career, or meet the requirements for a new or existing position.
​
The organist plays a vital role during Mass by supporting the sung parts of the liturgy, leading congregational singing, accompanying the choir or cantor, and providing appropriate musical selections before, during, and after the service. The organist enhances the prayerful atmosphere of the liturgy, highlights the sacredness of the rites, and helps unify the assembly in worship.
The organ holds a place of honor in church services as the traditional instrument of the liturgy, capable of supporting congregational singing, enhancing the beauty of sacred music, and lifting hearts to God through its rich and expressive sound. Its use deepens the spiritual atmosphere of worship and reinforces the solemnity and grandeur of the Church’s sacred rites.
Below is the semester breakdown for the Organist Certification. Click on the title of each class or lesson for more detailed information. Each semester includes mentoring sessions and an assessment of progress. The semester breakdown is a suggested course of study. This can be adjusted individually based on each student's needs. Upon completing the certification, the student will have a video resume demonstrating competence in sacred music.
​
SEMESTER 1
​This course provides an overview of music's foundational components, including notation, intervals, key signatures, harmonic analysis and realization, and figured bass.
​
​This course provides a survey of the historical role of music in worship from its roots in the Old Testament to the present day, exploring landmark repertoire within the framework of turning points in ecclesiastical history. While the class will focus primarily on Christian music in the western world, cross-cultural influences will also be explored.
​
There are 15 lessons for the fall and winter semesters and 10 lessons for the summer semester.
​
SEMESTER 2
This course builds upon the fundamental skills and concepts explored in Theory I; therefore, some prior knowledge of the subject matter is required. Topics include: harmonic analysis, seventh chords, harmonization of melodies, transposition, modulation to closely related keys, non-harmonic tones, modes and neumes, basics of counterpoint, and musical forms.
​
This three-part class assists the sacred musicians to be successful in their work. Each unit is self-contained, but together, they will provide you with tools and knowledge to address many common extra-musical challenges that arise within church music programs.
-
Interpersonal Skills
-
Church Documents Pertaining to Sacred Music and Organic Development of Music in the Church
-
Liturgical Music Resources and Planning
​
​There are 15 lessons for the fall and winter semesters and 10 lessons for the summer semester.​​​
​
SEMESTER 3
This course provides a more advanced exploration of musical form and analysis, as well as practical aural skills training specifically developed for church musicians.
​​
​There are 15 lessons for the fall and winter semesters and 10 lessons for the summer semester.
​
SEMESTER 4
This course introduces a wide variety of organ repertoire through various historical periods. The focus will be on organ repertoire from the 17th century through today. Aspects of performance such as style, ornamentation, and registration will also be focused on, with special attention given to registration on smaller instruments. This course aims to introduce both the pillars of the repertoire and lesser-known examples. Accessible, high-quality repertoire will be introduced to hopefully aid students in the selection of voluntaries for church services.
​
​There are 15 lessons for the fall and winter semesters and 10 lessons for the summer semester.
​
SEMESTER 5
The primary goal of this course is to honor the work of the Holy Spirit in over three thousand years of congregational song. The secondary goals are to help us grow as worshipers and select appropriate songs in various settings. To achieve this, the student will explore the history, theological themes, and literary structure of hymns, focusing on the interaction between text and tune. Students will be expected to memorize the first stanza of an assigned hymn each week to establish a foundation of historical references.
​
Gregorian Chant for Beginners**
This course is designed for novices in singing and reading chant. It will introduce students to the historical and musical significance of Gregorian Chant, describe its function in the liturgy, explore modes and neumes, and discuss resources and strategies for implementing chant in parishes that are unaccustomed to its use. The course will include both prerecorded lectures and live discussion/practice sessions.​
​
​There are 15 lessons for the fall and winter semesters and 10 lessons for the summer semester.
​
SEMESTER 6
Dr. Jason Keefer presents a variety of practical liturgical improvisation techniques to encourage creativity in student organists. This capstone course is designed for experienced musicians at the end of the certification process.
​​
​There are 15 lessons for the fall and winter semesters and 10 lessons for the summer semester.
​
​
​​​
*Students who excel at the theory placement exam may substitute an advanced topics-based directed study or chant course
**More experienced students may substitute Intermediate and/or Advanced Gregorian Chant
***There is a repertoire requirement for certification based on previous experience and career goals.
Cantor Certification
Unlike degree programs, our certification programs are shorter and focus on practical, career-oriented skills outcomes. Many church musicians do not need an academic degree, making certification a more accessible and relevant option. It is an organized, comprehensive study that is directly focused on what you need to do your job in a church setting. It includes coursework, private lessons, liturgical resources training, assessments, and mentoring from faculty with extensive experience in sacred music. Upon successful completion, you will receive a certificate that demonstrates your proficiency, along with a video portfolio. Certification is ideal for individuals seeking to enhance their skills, transition into a new career, or meet the requirements for a new or existing position.
​
The Cantor serves a vital role in worship by leading the congregation in sung prayer, proclaiming the responsorial psalm, and supporting the liturgical action through clear, reverent, and expressive singing. As both a leader and servant of the assembly, the cantor helps foster active participation and deepen the community’s engagement with the Word of God.
Below is the semester breakdown for the Cantor Certification. Click on the title of each class or lesson for more detailed information. Each semester includes mentoring sessions and an assessment of progress. The semester breakdown is a suggested course of study. This can be adjusted individually based on each student's needs. Upon completing the certification, the student will have a video resume demonstrating competence in sacred music.
​
SEMESTER 1
​This course provides an overview of music's foundational components, including notation, intervals, key signatures, harmonic analysis and realization, and figured bass.
​
​This course provides a survey of the historical role of music in worship from its roots in the Old Testament to the present day, exploring landmark repertoire within the framework of turning points in ecclesiastical history. While the class will focus primarily on Christian music in the western world, cross-cultural influences will also be explored.
​
There are 15 lessons for the fall and winter semesters and 10 lessons for the summer semester.
​
SEMESTER 2
This course builds upon the fundamental skills and concepts explored in Theory I; therefore, some prior knowledge of the subject matter is required. Topics include: harmonic analysis, seventh chords, harmonization of melodies, transposition, modulation to closely related keys, non-harmonic tones, modes and neumes, basics of counterpoint, and musical forms.
​
This three-part class assists the sacred musicians to be successful in their work. Each unit is self-contained, but together, they will provide you with tools and knowledge to address many common extra-musical challenges that arise within church music programs.
-
Interpersonal Skills
-
Church Documents Pertaining to Sacred Music and Organic Development of Music in the Church
-
Liturgical Music Resources and Planning
​​
There are 15 lessons for the fall and winter semesters and 10 lessons for the summer semester.
​
SEMESTER 3
The primary goal of this course is to honor the work of the Holy Spirit in over three thousand years of congregational song. The secondary goals are to help us grow as worshipers and select appropriate songs in various settings. To achieve this, the student will explore the history, theological themes, and literary structure of hymns, focusing on the interaction between text and tune. Students will be expected to memorize the first stanza of an assigned hymn each week to establish a foundation of historical references.
​
Gregorian Chant for Beginners**
This course is designed for novices in singing and reading chant. It will introduce students to the historical and musical significance of Gregorian Chant, describe its function in the liturgy, explore modes and neumes, and discuss resources and strategies for implementing chant in parishes that are unaccustomed to its use. The course will include both prerecorded lectures and live discussion/practice sessions.​
​
There are 15 lessons for the fall and winter semesters and 10 lessons for the summer semester.
​
*Students who excel at the theory placement exam may substitute an advanced topics-based directed study or chant course
**More experienced students may substitute Intermediate and/or Advanced Gregorian Chant
​
Lessons include work on presentation and non-vocal considerations of cantoring from both the choir loft and in front of the congregation.
​
​​
​
​
Cantor Educational Packages are also available.
​​​
"SMIA Summers"
Certification Track
Unlike degree programs, our certification programs are shorter and focus on practical, career-oriented skills outcomes. Many church musicians do not need an academic degree, making certification a more accessible and relevant option. It is an organized, comprehensive study that is directly focused on what you need to do your job in a church setting. It includes coursework, private lessons, liturgical resources training, assessments, and mentoring from faculty with extensive experience in sacred music. Upon successful completion, you will receive a certificate that demonstrates your proficiency, along with a video portfolio. Certification is ideal for individuals seeking to enhance their skills, transition into a new career, or meet the requirements for a new or existing position.
​
Below is the breakdown for "SMIA Summers." This new Certification Track is ideal for those with challenging schedules. Students will attend classes during the summer, when more time is available due to the lighter demands at church. Click on the title of each class for more detailed information.
The semester breakdown is a recommended course of study. This can be tailored to meet each student's individual needs.
​
SUMMER 1
​This course provides an overview of music's foundational components, including notation, intervals, key signatures, harmonic analysis and realization, and figured bass.
​
​This course provides a survey of the historical role of music in worship from its roots in the Old Testament to the present day, exploring landmark repertoire within the framework of turning points in ecclesiastical history. While the class will focus primarily on Christian music in the western world, cross-cultural influences will also be explored.
​
This three-part class assists the sacred musicians to be successful in their work. Each unit is self-contained, but together, they will provide you with tools and knowledge to address many common extra-musical challenges that arise within church music programs.
-
Interpersonal Skills
-
Church Documents Pertaining to Sacred Music and Organic Development of Music in the Church
-
Liturgical Music Resources and Planning
​
​
SUMMER 2
This course builds upon the fundamental skills and concepts explored in Theory I; therefore, some prior knowledge of the subject matter is required. Topics include: harmonic analysis, seventh chords, harmonization of melodies, transposition, modulation to closely related keys, non-harmonic tones, modes and neumes, basics of counterpoint, and musical forms.
​​
Gregorian Chant for Beginners**
This course is designed for novices in singing and reading chant. It will introduce students to the historical and musical significance of Gregorian Chant, describe its function in the liturgy, explore modes and neumes, and discuss resources and strategies for implementing chant in parishes that are unaccustomed to its use. The course will include both prerecorded lectures and live discussion/practice sessions.​
​
The primary goal of this course is to honor the work of the Holy Spirit in over three thousand years of congregational song. The secondary goals are to help us grow as worshipers and select appropriate songs in various settings. To achieve this, the student will explore the history, theological themes, and literary structure of hymns, focusing on the interaction between text and tune. Students will be expected to memorize the first stanza of an assigned hymn each week to establish a foundation of historical references.
​
​
SUMMER 3
This course provides a more advanced exploration of musical form and analysis, as well as practical aural skills training specifically developed for church musicians.
​
This class offers an introduction to choral conducting techniques. Students will explore conducting gestures, diction for the church musician, choral technique, basics of vocal pedagogy, and choral repertoire.
​
This course introduces a wide variety of organ repertoire through various historical periods. The focus will be on organ repertoire from the 17th century through today. Aspects of performance such as style, ornamentation, and registration will also be focused on, with special attention given to registration on smaller instruments. This course aims to introduce both the pillars of the repertoire and lesser-known examples. Accessible, high-quality repertoire will be introduced to hopefully aid students in the selection of voluntaries for church services.
​
​
SUMMER 4
This course explores the choral music that has been created over the ages for the enrichment of the liturgy and the praise of the almighty God. The course intends to demonstrate the vast riches of the patrimony of church music available to the music directors of both large and small churches. Emphasis is placed on the correct informed historical performance and the liturgical positioning of the pieces covered in the course. It is structured according to the liturgical year.​​
​
This advanced course in choral conducting encompasses score study and practical experience as a conductor and a member of a choral ensemble. This practicum class will emphasize accessible and masterwork pieces for choirs. The course concludes with a concert performed by the students, accompanied by a professional choral ensemble. TThis course may be taken either in person or online.
​​
Dr. Jason Keefer presents a variety of practical liturgical improvisation techniques to encourage creativity in student organists. This capstone course is designed for experienced musicians at the end of the certification process.​
​
​
Organ lessons will take place during the fall and spring semesters, allowing students to use their summers to focus on the classes. A semester of 15 Voice Lessons is required, and must be completed before the summer 3 semester. After completing the certification, the student will have a video resume showcasing their competence in sacred music.
​​​
*Students who excel at the theory placement exam may substitute an advanced topics-based directed study or chant course
**More experienced students may substitute Intermediate and/or Advanced Gregorian Chant
***Voice Proficiency - At least 15 voice lessons are required. Students must pass a proficiency for this portion of the certification. The proficiency standards are based on previous experience and career goals.
****There is a repertoire requirement for certification based on previous experience and career goals.