Members of the Cleveland Orchestra during a reading session of student chamber works, Spring 2010

Known for its aesthetic diversity and openness to the wide variety of options existing in the ever-changing and progressive world of composition, the Composition Program in the Frost School of Music’s Department of Music Theory and Composition has had a long tradition of distinguished faculty and students. Many of its composers have been actively engaged in the field through important performances of the their works, awards, commissions, recordings and participation in professional societies/ networks. Many have gone on to teach at other institutions. This tradition attests to the dynamic and stimulating learning environment that has been fostered and nurtured by a caring and devoted faculty.                                             

Our Faculty boasts advanced degrees from Harvard, Yale, University of Illinois, Indiana University, Oberlin as well as the University of Miami. They bring both great experience and stylistic breath to an environment uniquely suited towards exploring many compositional paths. There are two separate divisions and degree areas of study within the Department. Music Theory and Composition (MTC), where we offer the B.M., M.M. and D.M.A. degrees; as well as Media Writing and Studio production (MWP) where students can pursue the B.M., M.M and D.M.A. degrees as well. Additionally the department offers comprehensive courses in electronic music which are open to all students within the school of music. All this within one of the most vibrant and energetic cities in the world!

The department presents on average 4 concerts a semester featuring either faculty or student works.Each year Festival Miami highlights both a Faculty recital and an Emerging Composers concert devoted to student works.The S.C.I. student chapter presents 3 concerts each year

Rich Chwastiak performing “Rus” by faculty member Scott Stinson

Nearby concerts by the celebrated “New World Symphony” led by Michael Tilson Thomas offer a significant opportunity for hearing new music. Recent seasons have included performances, as well as appearances by such significant composers as John Adams, Thomas Ades, James McMillian, Kaija Saariaho, James Mackey, and Michael Daugherty; just to name a few. On campus ensembles including the Frost Symphony, Wind Ensemble, Percussion ensemble as well as the “Other music ensemble” present a vast array of new and contemporary works each year.