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Music - Composition

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Overview

Many people do not start pursuing composition until late in their music studies. Students who enjoy improvising or learning about how music is put together may be composers. Illinois State University composition majors receive reading sessions from nationally prominent ensembles such as Ensemble Dal Niente, Fulcrum Point, and ensemble mise-en. Our annual Red Note New Music Festival brings in prestigious composers such as Pulitzer Prize winners Steven Stucky and William Bolcom to campus.

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Point of Pride

Composition students regularly receive readings and performances by world-class guest artists and student ensembles, including Illinois State's choral ensembles, Illinois State's Symphony Orchestra and the award-winning Wind Symphony.

Why study Music - Composition?

Musicians may play musical instruments, sing, write musical compositions or conduct groups in vocal or instrumental performances. Majoring in music provides students with a sense of aesthetics and an understanding of human expression valuable to many employers. Majoring in music composition will help a student already interested in writing original music hone their craft and bring it to a higher level of professionalism. Our composition majors have gone on to obtain advanced degrees in music theory and composition at institutions such as the University of Pittsburgh, the University of Miami, and the University of Iowa.

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How to Apply

Applying to Illinois State

Applying by our priority deadline is encouraged for best consideration for your academic program and for scholarships. You will select your audition time within the application for admission. Start your application today!

Applying to the Program

  • Complete your application for admission, including selecting an audition date—we'll email you with a confirmation for your audition.
  • Refer to the suggested repertoire recommendations for each music studio to prepare for your audition. You may want to also contact the respective applied faculty member for further information about the audition.
  • Visit your portal to upload:
    • a letter of recommendation from a music professional
    • a music resume
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  • School of Music
  • (309) 438-7631
  • Centennial East 230
  • Wonsook Kim College of Fine Arts

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