Program Details
Master of music degree program in composition
HEGIS code 1004.10
NYS SED program code 88183
The 30-credit master of music degree in composition is the degree for a composer who seeks advanced study in composition. A key feature is weekly private composition lessons (for four semesters) with a member of our internationally acclaimed faculty. Residencies are available within the Conservatory's numerous ensembles and the orchestra, and a broad range of compositional styles is encouraged. Two concerts per semester exclusively feature the work of Conservatory students. Students also complete a minimum of three seminars in style criticism, music history, and music theory.
Program Heads
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Phone
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Location
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Email
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Office Hours
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| Jensen-moulton, Stephanie | Graduate Deputy | 718 951 5000 x1182 | 415 Whitehead Hall |
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Mon & Wed 10:30am-1pm; Tues 1pm-4:15; other days & times by appointment |
Building codes:
A-Whitehead; B-Boylan; J-James;
N-Ingersoll; NE-Ingersoll Extension; R-Roosevelt; RE-Roosevelt Extension; WEB - West End Building
Admission Requirements
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Music, Conservatory Of |
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March 1st |
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November 1st |
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Supporting Documents for Matriculation: Submit to the Office of Admissions: official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended, two letters of recommendation. All applicants are given placement examinations. Submit complete compositions to deputy director, Conservatory of Music. |
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| TOEFL (paper, computer, internet) | 550, 213, 79 |
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Separate programs are offered in composition and in performance, each of which leads to the master of music degree.
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Matriculation requirements
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Applicants for either program must offer at least 36 credits in music courses including courses in analysis, counterpoint, harmony, and history.
Consideration is given to applicants who do not meet course requirements but have unusual talent or experience equivalent to course work. Such applicants should consult the assistant director.
A placement examination is given to all applicants for admission. The test includes writing skills (harmonic and contrapuntal techniques), analysis, history, and literature. Further information about the examination may be obtained from the assistant director.
Applicants for the program in composition must submit a completed composition or compositions, which should be sent to the assistant director at the time of application. Applicants for the program in performance must pass an audition at the time of application. A request for an audition appointment may be made by telephone to the conservatory office.
General matriculation and admission requirements of the Division of Graduate Studies are in the section "Admission" of the Graduate Bulletin.
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Degree requirements
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Thirty credits are required for the master of music degree either in composition or performance.
Before completing 12 credits, students must pass a test given by the conservatory in French, German, or another language approved by the assistant director. Students who completed their bachelor's degree using a modern language other than English may be exempted from this language examination by the assistant director.
Students must pass a comprehensive examination. Information about requirements for the comprehensive examination is in the section "Academic Regulations and Procedures." Courses in the conservatory offered toward the degree must be 7000-level courses. The program of study must be approved by the conservatory.
Students must also complete requirements for the program in composition or in performance as follows. Any remaining credits required for the degree must be in courses chosen in consultation with the assistant director.
Composition (22 credits): Music U7321X, U7322X, U7323X, U7400G; one course chosen from Music U7601G-U7606G, U7631G, U7650X, 7651X, U7840X, 7850X, 7860X; one course chosen from Music U7632G, U7641X, U7642X, U7643X; one course chosen from Music 7700X through 7781X; and Music U7940G. Students must submit a master's composition project.
Performance (25 credits): Music U7400G; one course chosen from Music U7601G-U7606G, U7631G, U7650X, 7651X, U7840X, 7850X, 7860X; one course chosen from Music U7632G, U7641X, U7642X; four courses chosen from Music 7700X through 7781X; and Music 7791X, 7792X, 7793X, U7950G. Students must perform a master's recital.
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Recommendation
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Composition majors interested in electronic music who take Music U7321X-U7323X should also consider taking Music U7371G and U7372G.
Music majors aiming toward professional careers as performers are strongly urged to take additional ensembles each semester, including at least two terms of Music 7741X, 7742X, 7743X, 7780X or 7781X (i.e., Contemporary Music Ensemble, Brass Ensemble, Woodwind Chamber Music, Jazz Ensemble, or Small Jazz Ensemble).
