Bachelor of Theory/Composition

The Bachelor of Music degree program in Music Theory/Composition prepares young composers for an active career as a creative artist, writing music for a variety of performing mediums, both classical and commercial. Related studies in music theory augment the development of compositional techniques; it also enables composers to teach in a related field at the college/university level.

Career Opportunities:

• Composers can work towards an active career of commissions and publications, in the area of classical, educational or commercial music
• Many composers seek positions in colleges or universities, as members of the music theory and composition faculty.  These appointments will provide financial security, enabling a composer to teach as well as work on commissions and compositional projects of all kinds.
• Additional study at the graduate level is an expectation; the composition program challenges the student to develop a professional portfolio of compositions that will be acceptable to a graduate level program.

The Heidelberg Advantage: Music Theory/Composition

• More than 100 years of active service in the education of the musician
• Theory/composition program is fully accredited by NASM (National Association of  Schools of Music)
• Compositional experiences in a variety of mediums, acoustic and electronic
• An annual New Music Festival, bringing students into regular contact with award-winning composers and performers who present the latest ideas in contemporary music composition
• Two music labs: one computer lab and a second, separate electronic music facility
• Two accomplished, professional composers as members of the faculty
• No additional fees for private/class compositional study, a potential savings of thousands of dollars
• A strong, dedicated music faculty, with regional, national and international reputations. Faculty members combine a personal commitment to teaching with continuing scholarship, research and professional performance.
• Composition recitals each semester allows students to learn from public performances of their new compositions.
• Student ensembles regularly read through and/or perform student compositions
• A composition portfolio requirement for graduation provides a selection of composed works that students can use to apply to graduate school and other professional opportunities
• Low faculty-student ratio allows for more personal attention to student progress and development
• Excellent track record for students: Graduates have gone on to successful study at the graduate level and enjoyed meaningful careers as composers and teachers.
• Special music scholarships available, in addition to Heidelberg financial aid
  

Curriculum: 

The Heidelberg College Catalog features a series of course grids in the Music section of the Catalog; the grids outline each degree program’s course of study. Sample four-year plans are also available for each music degree. The curriculum is divided into four primary areas:

• Performance: Study related to the art of performance in any way. Applied study with the student’s major instrument or voice is included here. Also included in this area are ensemble and recital requirements, in addition to other forms of performance-related instruction.
• Theoretical Music: Courses in Music Theory, Aural Training and Music History/literature in the first two years of study prepare students for later advanced studies in counterpoint, orchestration, and analysis. Courses in choral and instrumental conducting are also included in this area.
• Music Electives: Additional music electives will provide other courses, including related applied study, additional ensemble/performance credits.
• General Education: Courses from disciplines outside of the Department of Music provide a broad and varied educational experience, a vital part of the mission of Heidelberg College.