|
Composition
Home
Composition is a highly competitive field. Shenandoah’s composition
program is an excellent foundation for the developing composer,
providing the able student with the theoretical knowledge and technical
skills necessary for a successful career. The greatest opportunities
for success are found by those who continue to pursue their studies
at the graduate level. Because of the rigorous competition in the
field, composition students should regard the completion of doctoral
study as necessary for professional status.
The Bachelor of Music in Composition includes eight
semesters of private composition study and eight semesters of study
in one or more applied music areas. Professional courses include
16th and 18th century counterpoint, instrumentation, arranging,
music notation, form and analysis, electronic music and contemporary
styles. Supporting coursework includes tonal and 20th century theory,
aural skills, sightsinging, keyboard harmony, music literature and
history, conducting, symphonic and choral literature and eight semesters
of ensemble participation.
Composition students also study four semesters of foreign language
and fulfill the institutional requirements in English, religion
or philosophy, mathematics, social and behavioral sciences and kinesiology
or dance.
The Master of Music in Composition includes four
semesters of private composition study, courses in bibliography
and research and advanced theory and electives. The culminating
experiences include a comprehensive examination and a major composition.
Shenandoah’s student composers have ample opportunities to hear
their own compositions. Their works are frequently performed by
their peers on studio, division and solo recital, and all of the
Conservatory’s major ensembles have performed student works. A recital
of music by student composers is presented each spring.
Composition students benefit from the many guest performers and
composers who visit the campus. Master classes, lectures and concerts
by these artists provide student composers with insights into the
professional world. Past guests have included Donald Erb, Vincent
Persichetti, Ben Johnston, William Duckworth, Marvin Lamb, Nancy
Van de Vate, Kamilló Lendvay, the Theatre Chamber Players
and eighth blackbird.
While the Conservatory supports all of a student’s eventual goals,
neither the undergraduate nor graduate curriculum includes work
in the popular idiom or jazz.
|
