1031 Moore Musical Arts Center, 372-2182
(courses coded MUCH)
Admission as a composition major
A student is accepted for the bachelor of music degree program in music composition by audition before the appropriate area faculty. This audition may be held at the time of the initial College of Musical Arts instrumental/vocal audition or during the course of degree study. It is also possible to add composition to an existing major for a double major. It is highly recommended that the acceptance audition take place before or during the freshman or sophomore year.
Composition applicants are required to submit a representative portfolio of original scores and tapes, must achieve a passing score in their main performance medium and must receive a high score on the music theory placement exam. Upon acceptance the student, in counsel with an adviser, develops a course of study based on degree requirements and the students' needs and interests. If deficiencies are noted a student may be admitted on probationary status (pre-composition). Students accepted on this status must resubmit a composition portfolio and must achieve a 3.0 grade point average in major area courses within four semesters (summer is not included). Failure to do so will result in discontinuation as a composition major.
MUCH small ensembles
The department offers small ensembles as a training ground for performance practice and a showcase for music of a particular genre. These are the Afro-Caribbean Ensemble, Balinese Gamelan Ensemble, Early Music Ensemble and New Music Ensemble. Participation in a variety of MUCH small ensembles by music composition majors is strongly encouraged. All music majors are expected to participate in ensembles throughout their undergraduate program at Bowling Green State University.
Jury examinations
Composition jury examinations occur each semester during final examination week. Students submit a portfolio of work from the semester and it is reviewed by the composition faculty. All composition majors are required to take jury examinations each term in which they are registered for MUCH 216 or 416.
The final grade in composition is determined by combining the grade from the individual instructor with the grade given at the jury. A final grade lower than "B" earned in fall or spring will result in probationary status in composition for the following semester, except summer. A letter will be sent to the student indicating the reason for probationary status, its duration and the steps necessary for its removal. If the student eliminates the deficiencies within the probationary period, regular status will be reinstated. If the conditions for removal are not met, the student will be discontinued as a composition major. Upon removal of deficiencies, a student may apply for reinstatement.
Keyboard proficiency requirement
Functional keyboard proficiency tests I and II are required. See Music education: Functional keyboard requirements below and pertinent course descriptions.
Degree requirements
The bachelor of music degree in music composition requires 127-140 total credits distributed as follows:
For specific information, consult the composition coordinator in the composition/history department.
Electives outside of music
Three or four additional courses, including at least one from the approved general education list. Total general education plus electives: 29-31 hours.
Foreign language
Two courses in the same language. Total 6-8 hours.
Music requirements
All composition majors are required to complete the following music courses. Minimum total: 89 hours.
Music core: 27 hours.
Music performance
Piano proficiency
Music literature electives
Music composition major courses
Completion requirement
Candidates for the bachelor's degree in music composition are required to present a half-recital of original compositions (or equivalent, such as music for a stage play or film of substantial length). Composition majors planning to give a degree recital must be registered for MUCH 416 during the semester in which the recital is given or must give the recital within four weeks of the beginning of the semester immediately following the last semester of MUCH 416. Recital programs must be approved in advance by the composition faculty before a recital date can be obtained.
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