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BMus Music — Composition Concentration

Western Washington University, United States
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Course Overview

The BMus Music – Composition Concentration program at Western Washington University provides students with a comprehensive education in music composition. The program emphasizes the development of musical skills and creativity, with an emphasis on contemporary music styles and technologies. Students will have the opportunity to work closely with faculty members who are experienced composers and performers, and to participate in performances and events that showcase their talents. Graduates of the program are well-prepared to pursue careers as professional composers or to continue their studies at the graduate level.

Additional Information

The BMus Music – Composition Concentration program is designed for students who want to develop their skills in music composition and to explore a wide range of musical styles and techniques. The program provides a supportive and challenging environment where students can grow as musicians and composers, and gain the knowledge and experience they need to succeed in the music industry. In addition to coursework, students will have opportunities to perform their compositions in recitals and concerts, and to collaborate with other musicians and artists on projects and events.

Discover Your Musical Potential at Western Washington University

Western Washington University is an excellent choice for students interested in music composition because of its strong programs in music performance and education. The university has a vibrant musical culture, with numerous ensembles and performances throughout the year. The faculty members are experienced composers and performers who are passionate about teaching and mentoring students, and they provide individualized attention and support to help students achieve their goals. Additionally, the university's location in Bellingham provides a beautiful and inspiring setting for music composition, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and creative expression.

Why You Should Study This Course

Music composition majors learn a variety of skills enabling them to express their musical ideas in an effective manner that allows for performance of their creations. Each student receives private composition instruction along with instruction in basic music theory, music history, conducting, lessons on their major instrument or voice, and ensemble performance. While composition instruction will cover all modes, genres, and periods, students may elect to concentrate their creativity on one or more specific areas. Instruction will include introduction and advanced courses in the use of computer hardware and software.

General Eligibility

Academic Requirements for freshman students:

The admission requirements for undergraduate courses are given as follows:

  • Completed application form

  • Academic Transcripts(certified english translations if necessary)

  • Relevant High school degree/Grade Report/Certificates

  • SAT or ACT Scores (Optional)

  • A cumulative GPA of 2.0

  • Personal Statement or essay

  • One letter of recommendation

  • List of extracurricular activities(if any)

  • Portfolio

What You'll Study

1 Chamber Music

❑ One course from:

MUS 275 - Chamber Jazz Ensembles Credits: 2

MUS 278 - Opera Workshop Credits: 1-2

MUS 280 - Collegium Musicum Credits: 1-2

MUS 281 - Applied Chamber Music Credits: 0-2

MUS 283 - Chamber Vocal Ensembles Credits: 2

MUS 284 - Vocal Jazz Ensemble Credits: 2

MUS 475 - Chamber Jazz Ensemble Credits: 2

MUS 478 - Advanced Opera Production Credits: 1-2

MUS 480 - Advanced Collegium Musicum Credits: 1-2

MUS 481 - Advanced Applied Chamber Music Credits: 2

MUS 483 - Western Voices Credits: 2

MUS 484 - Advanced Vocal Jazz Ensemble Credits: 2

MUS 485 - New Music Ensemble Credits: 1-2

2 Core Modules

❑ MUS 121A - Aural Skills I Credits: 1

❑ MUS 121B - Keyboard Skills I Credits: 1

or MUS 221C - Advanced Keyboard Skills I Credits: 2

❑ MUS 122 - Theoretical and Analytical Skills I Credits: 2

❑ MUS 123A - Aural Skills II Credits: 1

❑ MUS 123B - Keyboard Skills II Credits: 1

or MUS 223C - Advanced Keyboard Skills II Credits: 2

❑ MUS 124 - Theoretical and Analytical Skills II Credits: 2

❑ MUS 125A - Aural Skills III Credits: 1

❑ MUS 125B - Keyboard Skills III Credits: 1

or MUS 225C - Advanced Keyboard Skills III Credits: 2

❑ MUS 126 - Theoretical and Analytical Skills III Credits: 2

❑ MUS 221A - Aural Skills IV Credits: 1

❑ MUS 221B - Keyboard Skills IV Credits: 1 (MUS 221B is waived if MUS 221C is taken)

❑ MUS 222 - Theoretical and Analytical Skills IV Credits: 2

❑ MUS 223A - Aural Skills V Credits: 1

❑ MUS 223B - Keyboard Skills V Credits: 1 (MUS 223B is waived if MUS 223C is taken)

❑ MUS 224 - Theoretical and Analytical Skills V Credits: 2

❑ MUS 225A - Aural Skills VI Credits: 1

❑ MUS 225B - Keyboard Skills VI Credits: 1 (MUS 225B is waived if MUS 225C is taken)

❑ MUS 226 - Theoretical and Analytical Skills VI Credits: 2

The music history sequence is typically completed during the third year in the program. Students must complete the first year of music theory and analytical skills courses (MUS 122-126) prior to this sequence.

❑ MUS 341 - History of Music to 1600 Credits: 3

❑ MUS 342 - History of Music 1600-1830 Credits: 3

❑ MUS 343 - History of Music 1830-Present Credits: 3

3 Music Composition Core Requirements
  • Composition Lessons

  • Electroacoustic Music and Electives

  • Conducting

  • Upper-Division Music Theory

  • Upper-Division Music History

  • Senior Project

4 Primary Instrument Requirements
  • Brass

  • Guitar

  • Percussion

  • Piano

  • Strings

  • Voice

  • Woodwinds

Language Requirement

  • IELTS6.5
  • TOEFL93
  • PTE65
  • Duolingo89

Minimun IELTS Score 6.5 overall.

Ready to get started?

For any enquiries or further details, please don't hesitate to contact us. Let's take the next step in your academic journey together.

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