Music: Composition Concentration, B.S.

NY State Program Code: 04113
HEGIS Code: 1005.00
CIP Code: 50.0901

(42 credits)

The Concentration in Composition for the Bachelor of Science in Music provides training for young composers in preparation for graduate studies as well as professional activities outside academia. Students in this concentration have the opportunity to work with faculty members of the department in order to develop a strong body of compositions. A seminar as well as private lessons in composition are complemented by courses in counterpoint, conducting and orchestration. Academic work is supplemented by workshops, readings, lectures, and performances of student works by guest artists and composers.

The portfolio requirement will help students prepare and strengthen their graduate school application. All B.S. in Music Majors are required to perform a Senior Recital for their Capstone. Student Composers may choose to have their compositions performed as part of their Senior Recital, a recording of which should be submitted as part of their portfolio.

Unless their principal instrument is piano, students are also encouraged to take either the 4-semester sequence of Keyboard Proficiency (4 credits in total) or Basic Keyboard Skills (2 credits, repeatable) as well as a small ensemble for 4 semesters (0.5-1 credit, repeatable). Consult adviser for possible small ensemble electives as well as the structure of the current B.S. in Music. Composition Concentration Adviser: Sidney Boquiren.