A program that focuses on the study of the principles of sound manipulation as applied to the creation of music, and the techniques of creating and arranging music. Includes instruction in aural theory, melody, counterpoint, complex harmony, modulation, chromatics, improvisation, progressions, musi
Music CompositionMusic TheoryMusic ProductionSound DesignOrchestrationCreative ArtsEntertainmentMusic
A Week as a Student
Your week kicks off with Harmony I, deciphering complex chord progressions and voice leading. You stay after class, and Professor Davies gives you targeted feedback on your last counterpoint assignment, pointing out a subtle parallel octave. Later, in Aural Skills Lab, you tackle rhythmic dictation using headphones, trying to catch every sixteenth note. You grab a quick lunch with friends before heading to the practice room. Evening is spent trying to compose a short fugue using Sibelius, but you hit a wall trying to develop your subject.
High School Preparation
Required Subjects
MusicEnglishMathematicsHistory
Recommended GPA
3.0-3.5
Advanced Courses (AP/IB/Honors)
AP Music Theory
IB Music
AP English Literature
Core Subjects
Click on "i" to learn more about each subject
Career Prospects
Stable Study Prospects
Graduates can work as composers for film, television, and games, orchestrators, arrangers, music educators, or sound designers. Opportunities also exist in music publishing, production, and performance across various artistic sectors.
Impact of AI on this Study
AI tools are increasingly assisting composers with idea generation, orchestration, and sound design, potentially streamlining the creative process. While AI can create music, human creativity remains essential for artistic direction and emotional depth, transforming the role of the composer rather than replacing it.