Music Composition
From an introductory composition class that centers on the performance of specific writing projects and the development of individual work to one-to-one private instruction with our upper-level students, composition studies is an environment dedicated to musical excellence, broad academic inquiry and strong professional skills.
What to Expect
Weekly composition seminars include analysis and discussion between students and guest composers, performers and conductors, open rehearsals and visits by artists from other disciplines. Students profit from frequent visits by noted guest composers.
You also benefit from our rich musical resources, including two advanced computer music studios and our extensive music library collection. You are encouraged to take advantage of the diverse resources throughout the university and to collaborate with artists in other fields.
At the end of each term, student composers present their work at the New Voices concert, open to the public. This student-produced concert series is designed to stimulate compositional activity and educate composers in practical matters of concert production, publicity and artistic collaboration.
An audition is required to be considered for admission to all music degree programs.
Undergraduate Degree
B Bachelor of Music (B.M.) — Composition Emphasis
Offered by the School of Music, this degree provides an excellent general education combined with rigorous training in an area of emphasis (composition, jazz studies, music education, music theory or performance).
The following courses fulfill some of the requirements for a Bachelor of Music with an emphasis in composition:
- Music Theory I-IV
- Aural Skills I-IV
- History of Western Music I-III
- Recital Class (and laboratory)
- Music Advocacy I: Understanding the Power of Your Music
- Music Composition
- Orchestration
- Introduction to Computer Music
- Ensembles
Apply for Undergraduate Admission
Our Office of Undergraduate Admissions provides the most current information on the application process so you can check the requirements based on your current status and find university scholarships.
The School of Music’s supportive and collaborative atmosphere has made my time here a vibrant, enriching experience. I’ve had opportunities to explore new interests, develop special projects and work with artists across multiple disciplines.
Graduate Degrees
One-on-one training with world-class faculty members and visiting artist/teachers and diverse performance opportunities prepare our graduates for the challenges of a career in music. The School of Music offers both a Master of Music with a composition concentration, and a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in music composition.
Graduate Director: Clifford Leaman, 803-576-5893, cleaman@mozart.sc.edu
Program Contact: Traci Hair, 803-777-4106, thair@mozart.sc.edu
Application information for this degree is available through The Graduate School.
Graduate Director: Clifford Leaman, 803-576-5893, cleaman@mozart.sc.edu
Program Contact: Traci Hair, 803-777-4106, thair@mozart.sc.edu
Application information for this degree is available through The Graduate School.
Apply to Graduate School
Learn more about The Graduate School, degree options and how to apply for admission to doctoral, master’s, certificate and combination degree programs at South Carolina.