Studio composition prepares ambitious young writers in the craft of musical composition, especially in the recorded media.
We’re home to one of the oldest, largest, and best collegiate programs in this musical area. The undergraduate and graduate writers in studio composition are all dedicated to the purpose of increasing musical beauty as they hear it.
What Sets Studio Composition Apart?
Besides the amazingly collaborative and supportive community of musicians, it’s the…
- hands-on studio experience
- thorough training in conventional and unconventional music
- small-group study with professional writers
- a working community of artistic peers
-
a tradition of success among our alumni
The Program
Studio composition at Purchase features a stellar faculty and graduate program, a finely-tuned curriculum, close associations with both a renowned classical conservatory and a vibrant jazz studies program, and a superior professional career location.
It also functions closely with studio production, and collaborative accomplishment between these two programs is typical in classes, concerts, and recording sessions.
But the best aspect about studio composition at Purchase College is what the students themselves have made of it—a friendly, artistic community whose excellent tradition produces hundreds of new musical compositions every year.
Students can also choose to minor in Classical Composition.
Original Work
In order to graduate, all studio composers write and produce two significant original projects (undergraduate) or two master’s recitals (graduate). These can be either recorded, reviewed in score form, or performed live.
Many studio composition recitals feature multimedia collaboration with the other arts conservatories at Purchase College. Other recitals can occur at New York City clubs and concert venues, and in professional recording studios.
Deadlines and How to Apply
Visit Music Auditions in the Apply pages for details, including a video with tips on recording your prescreening audition.
Listen In
Take a listen to this Spotify playlist of compositions featuring alumni and current students of the Music and Technology Department, curated by Rebecca Haviland, co-head of the Undergraduate Studio Composition Department.