M.A. COMPOSITION

The Master of Arts - Music Composition is designed to advance the music composition creative skills of advanced students and to prepare them for admission to doctoral study. The program emphasizes mastery of composition of large-scale works for media including orchestra, choir, band and/or chamber music ensembles. Based on a solid undergraduate music degree, the master’s degree further develops abilities in music theory including analytical, aural, written, keyboard, and pedagogical skills. The program further develops breadth and depth in the area of Western music history and literature. Students are required to write a thesis composition.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

• Official transcript(s)
• 3.0 GPA
• Three letters of recommendation
• Portfolio of original compositions
• Statement of career goals
• Resumé

OUTCOMES/OBJECTIVES

Compositions

Students compile a body of completed compositions.

Composing

Students demonstrate and apply compositional techniques for creation of new works including musical style and structure.

Analysis

Students analyze music from a wide range of styles and style periods and communicate results in written and oral formats.

Literature

Students are able to recognize, identify, and analyze representative literature from different historical periods, countries and composers.

Communication

Students are able to communicate knowledge of composition, theory and other aspects of music as would be done in classroom and private teaching.

Oral examination

Students defend the thesis composition in an oral examination before a panel of three or more music theory & composition faculty. Additional comprehensive examination topics include music theory and music history.