Composition Requirements
Bachelor of Arts in Music - Emphasis in Composition and Bachelor of Music in Composition applicants must adhere to the composition requirements below only.
Bachelor of Music in Jazz Composition applicants must adhere to the composition requirements below and instrumental requirements.
Applicants to the Bachelor of Arts in Music degree (excluding Composition emphasis) and Bachelor of Music degrees in Performance, Music Studies and Jazz Performance must adhere to the instrumental requirements only. Do not complete the composition requirements described on this page.
Bachelor of Arts in Music - Emphasis in Composition & Bachelor of Music in Composition
2020 Interview Dates: January 25, February 1
Prescreening (required):
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Composition Portfolio:
- Submit a portfolio of three to five original compositions, preferably for different combinations of instruments and/or voices.
- The scores should be accompanied by recorded performances. If live performances are unavailable, synthesized performances are acceptable.
- Scores may be handwritten or prepared with music notation software.
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Performance Video:
- One piece or a movement of your choice, performed from memory by you on the instrument/voice selected for the application. Repertoire does not need to be selected from the instrumental requirements.
Upload and attach your compositions and recordings to the Butler School of Music application and submit by December 1.
Interview with the composition faculty (if invited):
- One piece or a movement of your choice, performed a cappella from memory on the instrument/voice selected for this application.
- Answer questions designed to test your aural ability and general knowledge of music theory, such as terminology, identification of chords and intervals, and sight-singing.
- Please bring one hard copy of each score submitted electronically with the application. The scores will be returned to you at the end of the interview.
Bachelor of Music in Jazz Composition
- Submit a portfolio of three to five original compositions, preferably for different combinations of instruments and/or voices.
- Scores may be handwritten or prepared with music notation software.
- The scores should be accompanied by recorded performances. If live performances are unavailable, synthesized performances are acceptable.
Upload and attach your compositions and recordings to the Butler School of Music application and submit by December 1.
In addition to submitting a composition portfolio, all Bachelor of Music in Jazz Composition applicants are required to audition for admission into the Butler School of Music. Only a jazz audition is acceptable for the Bachelor of Music in Jazz Composition degree.
