Composition Major Application Requirements
Submit at least two (2) original compositions with any instrumentation. Applications should include scores to accompany the pieces and recordings (audio or MIDI) if possible [CD recording or file].

Composition Major Entrance Exam
1) Written Exam (1 hour)
Applicants will be given a choice of several incomplete melodies. From these, they will choose one melody and continue it in a similar style for at least two (2) more phrases. Applicants will also add an accompaniment that compliments the completed melody in harmony, counterpoint, and texture.
The exam will last one (1) hour and use of a piano is allowed.

2) Audition (In Person or Video Interview for International Applicants)
1) The composition and Theory Faculty will discuss the submitted works (if any) with the applicant. If a video recorded application, the person responsible for videotaping the exam should then ask them to speak about their interest in composition (about how the pieces they submitted were composed, how they became interested in composition, favorite composers/pieces, future plans, etc.) or connect to the composition faculty via a video conferencing platform (Skype, Webex, Zoom).
2) Demonstrate basic musicianship on the piano or primary instrument:
a. Scales and arpeggios in three (3) major and minor keys (two octaves).
b. Prepare a short excerpt (not less than two (2) minutes) to play on the piano or their primary instrument. This excerpt may come from any piece in the repertoire.
3) In addition, the faculty or video interviewer may assess the applicant’s musicianship through basic melodic/rhythmic questions, including interval or chord identification by playing a collection of pitches at the piano. Applicants should also be prepared to answer questions pertaining to their interest in composition.