Music - Composition

Overview

Computers and electronic devices such as MIDI synthesizers are also frequently used in music composition.

Program objectives

Students majoring in the Music - Composition program from The Ohio State University will achieve the following learning outcomes:

Students must demonstrate achievement of professional, entry-level competence in the area of specialization, including significant technical mastery, capability to produce work and solve professional problems independently, and a coherent set of artistic/intellectual goals that are evident in their work.    

• Students will engage in applied studies each semester that will provide appropriate skills, knowledge and experience to prepare students for graduate programs and professional careers in the field. They will demonstrate an understanding of a wide range of historical styles and periods.
• Students will complete courses in music theory, music history, and area-specific literature and pedagogy that will provide appropriate skills, knowledge and experience to prepare them for professional careers in the field. These courses will represent a wide range of historical styles and periods.

Students will have the ability to communicate musical ideas, concepts and requirements to professionals and lay persons related to the practice of the major field. Such communication may involve musical, oral, written and visual media.

• Students will complete curricular requirements that include courses designed to develop oral and written communication skills.
• Students will gain knowledge and experience in pedagogical methodologies in their area of specialization.

Students will gain an understanding of the nature of the music field in the professional world, particularly related to organizational structures, work ethics, technological resources and entrepreneurial skills required for advancing their careers.

• Students will complete a required course in music technology. They will prepare numerous assignments in music theory and music history courses employing a wide range of software and Web-based sources and skills covered in this course.
• Students will build workplace skills through independent studies with applied faculty and ensemble directions.

Students will gain experiences in general studies sufficient to prepare them for a range of career options.

• Students will gain skills sufficient for clear and effective verbal and written communication.
• Students will include a broad range of general studies courses in their curricula appropriate for complementing degree requirements that address their specific music concentrations.

Possible careers

Some composers are able to support themselves by means of grants, commissions and other awards or find work in video and film production studios. Most composers continue their studies in graduate school and earn a doctoral degree before becoming a college teacher.