The student majoring in composition will study tonal harmony, counterpoint, tonal and non-tonal compositional techniques, instrumentation, and orchestration. Music literature studied will emphasize the concert music repertoire of the 20th and 21st centuries but also will include principal composers and styles from the 16th to the 19th centuries. The student will demonstrate mastery of these skills and concepts, as well as the development of an individual compositional personality and voice, by completing a portfolio of scores that will include (but not be limited to) a number of chamber pieces in smaller and larger forms, a composition for solo voice or mixed chorus, and a composition for full orchestra.
The study of acknowledged masterpieces from different historical periods will develop in the student an individual aesthetic vision and the critical ability to recognize and discuss music of quality. The student will gain skills by working with performers, leading rehearsals, and conducting and/or producing performances. |
| Test Scores: | - Test of English as a Foreign Language (Internet Based) [min. 72] or International English Language Testing System (academic or immigration) [min. 6.0]
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| Application Notes : | If you are applying to the degree program and your first language is not English, you are required to submit a PTE Academic, a TOEFL, or an IELTS score to complete your application for admission. We recommend a PTE Academic score of 48, a TOEFL IBT score of 72 or higher, or a IELTS score of 6 or higher.
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| Additional Admission Requirements: | Berklee’s unique audition and interview process allows us to learn about you as a whole artist while assessing your current level of musicianship and potential to succeed in our dynamic community. It also allows us to consider you for merit-based scholarship awards. The audition and interview, combined with your transcripts and supporting application materials, gives us a picture of who you are and where you have potential to grow. |
* We make every attempt to provide accurate information on prerequisites, programs, and tuition. However, this information is subject to change without notice and we highly recommend that you contact the school to confirm important information before applying.