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Master of Music in Composition
| Music Bibliography and Research (MUSC 707) | 2 credits |
| Major Area a) Composition study (8-9 credits of MUSC 716) [1] b) Thesis composition (3 credits of MUSC 799)[2] |
11-12 credits |
| Music History (advisor-approved) | 3 credits |
| Music Theory (advisor-approved) | 3 credits |
| Music Technology [3] | 3 credits |
| Music Electives [4] | 9-10 credits |
| Total | 32 credits |
MM-composition students must submit to the composition faculty an annual composition portfolio and attend a weekly Composition Seminar (no credit) while enrolled in MUSC 716 during the academic year. In addition, composition students are expected to attend master classes, lectures, and performances sponsored by the composition faculty. Normally the degree is completed within two years; in extenuating circumstances, however, the composition faculty may allow a third year of degree work.
[1]Three, 3-credit semesters of MUSC 716 (private composition study) are required. With the permission of the composition faculty, students may replace one semester of MUSC 716 with two summer terms of study (1 credit each term) and one elective credit. Students are encouraged to study with different teachers during their degree work.
[2]The thesis for the Master of Music Composition degree must be a chamber work at least 15 minutes in length. (A work for large ensemble may be substituted provided its duration is at least 15 minutes.) A composition prospectus, describing the instrumentation, general scope and resources of the work must be approved by the thesis committee before the student enrolls in MUSC 799 or begins composition of the work.
[3]Music Technology courses to be chosen in consultation with the student’s advisor after a review of the results of the Music Diagnostic Examination.
[4]Electives to be chosen from advanced courses in music composition (not including MUSC 716 or MUSC 799), music theory, music history, performance, and music technology, depending upon the background, interests, and needs of the student. A master’s student may not have more than 6 elective credits in any one area.
Prerequisites: Bachelor's degree in music; applicants must demonstrate experience and promise as a composer through the submission of appropriate materials; applicants without a bachelor's degree in music must take the Graduate Music Diagnostic Examination before admission.