
Students with strong performance skills are prepared for graduate studies in music composition. They become professional musicians, college and university teachers, or private studio teachers.
Why should I study composition?
Choosing an emphasis in composition means you will refine your music songwriting skills to produce beautiful works of sound. Explore compositions for single instruments, chamber groups, choirs, and orchestral works.
What can I do with this degree?
Our alumni have gone on to become professional composers, instructors, directors, and create their own signature musical groups for which they compose.
What skills will I develop?
- Advanced musical theory
- Rich knowledge of music history and literature
- Conducting
- Pedagogy in several instrumental types
- Collaboration with other musicians, production, and interpersonally
- Creative problem-solving
You’ll also have the opportunity to participate in the R.E.A.L. Experience—a program specifically designed to help you gain the relevant, hands-on experience employers desire—so that when you graduate, you’ll be as impressive in practice as you are on paper.
What unique experiences or opportunities will I have?
Collaboration with Faculty: Work one-on-one with your professors to hone technical skills and collaborate on research and performances.
Musical Tours: Participate in a music group that travels across the United States and abroad. Previous locations have included Singapore, Malaysia, Poland, Sweden, France, and more.
Festival of Christmas: Multiple music groups participate in this popular, large musical festival every year. You’ll perform in Benson Great Hall, a premier performance venue with over 1,700 seats.
As a composition student, you'll also find opportunities to have your music performed by yourself or other musicians on our premier stage in the Benson Great Hall.
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full- and part-time faculty
Recent grads have performed with the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra, The Minnesota Opera, The Banff Festival Orchestra, The Aspen Festival, The Oregon Bach Festival, and the nation’s service bands.
Recent News
The Greatest Story Ever Told
December 16, 2020 | 10:30 a.m.
64th Festival of Christmas Brings Light into Darkness
December 08, 2020 | 4:30 p.m.
Upcoming Events
FEB 25 2021
2021 Minnesota Private Colleges' Job & Internship Fair (Virtual)
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Opportunity to network with 260+ organizations who are interested in starting and maintaining employment relationships with Minnesota graduates!