Mar 28, 2024  
Undergraduate Catalog 2017-2018 
    
Undergraduate Catalog 2017-2018 [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Composition (B.M.)


Return to {$returnto_text} Return to: Shenandoah Conservatory

Jonathan Newman, Associate Professor of Music
Ruebush Hall, Room 139, (540) 665-4630, jnewman2@su.edu

The Bachelor of Music in Composition curriculum is designed for the student who wishes to pursue a career as a professional composer or as a professor of composition or theory/composition. The student’s creative skills are guided and developed through intense study in, and the practical application of, 20th and 21st Century art music, as well as practical skills in career management and concert production. The curriculum does not include significant study of, or work in popular idioms or jazz. The prospective student must be aware of the rigorous competition in the field, and should realize that continued study at the graduate level is often required.

Program Outcomes

Students completing the Bachelor of Music in Composition will be able to:

  • compose original music with a high level of technique for a variety of instrumental and vocal ensembles;
  • have compositions performed in a variety of settings;
  • demonstrate musicianship in solo and ensemble performances; and
  • demonstrate knowledge of music theory, music history, world music and music technology.

Course and Credit Requirements


1st Year – Fall


Total: 16.5 credits


1st Year – Spring


Total: 16 credits


2nd Year – Fall


Total: 17 credits


2nd Year – Spring


Total: 15 credits


3rd Year – Fall


Music Literature Elective


Select from:

Total: 3 credits

Total: 16 credits


3rd Year – Spring


Total: 14 credits


4th Year – Fall


Total: 15.5 credits


4th Year – Spring


Total: 15 credits


Degree Total: 125 credits


*Minimum grade of “C” required.

^Piano Proficiency Examination required.

(ALT) Offered on alternating schedule; consult with advisor.

Return to {$returnto_text} Return to: Shenandoah Conservatory