BM in Music (Composition)
California State University-Fresno — Fresno, CA
About this program
California State University, Fresno's NASM-accredited School of Music offers the Bachelor of Music in the Composition Option, a rigorous professional degree developing undergraduate composers for concert music and beyond. The program emphasizes concert music while building skills that translate to all disciplines including film, television, and digital media. Students receive comprehensive training in idiomatic writing for all orchestral and band instruments and voice types, along with music analysis, 20th and 21st century concert music literature, recording and MIDI production, and advanced counterpoint. All BM students enter as Pre-Music Majors for their first four semesters before declaring their specific option. All BM options require 120–132 total units; GE areas C1, C2, and IC are waived for BM students. Students must consult with a designated faculty advisor each semester before enrolling in music classes and must attend at least 15 concerts per semester throughout the program. The Composition Option culminates in a Senior Recital of the student's own music, performed by fellow students and ensembles. Compositions are regularly programd on ensemble concerts — past performances include concerts by the Fresno State Symphony Orchestra and Fresno State Percussion Ensemble. All composition students are encouraged to program works on the semester Student Composers' Recital, which is open to the public. The program is supported by the CSU Fresno Composer's Guild (ASI-recognized), which hosts weekly meetings, guest composer masterclasses, and organizes the Fresno New Music Festival. The Composer's Guild also serves as the student chapter of the Society of Composers, Inc.
Audition & application overview
- Requires a live or recorded audition
Live on-campus; two components: (1) primary instrument or voice audition and (2) composition portfolio review and faculty interview
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