Writing music requires knowledge of all facets of music to be successful, and studying music composition provides the foundation you need to create your own works. The Bachelor of Music helps you develop vision, depth and experience. You will learn about music from the past and present in order to help you understand concepts necessary to becoming a successful composer, and you will work closely with your professors to develop aesthetic, creative, critical and intellectual musical skills.
As a music composition major, you'll receive instruction in composition, conducting, ensembles, General Education requirements, music electives, music history and literature, music theory and performance studies. Participation in eight semesters of composition seminar and eight semesters of recital attendance will help you develop critical listening experience and knowledge of repertoire.
Every work you write will be either performed or read, generally by other students, and weekly recitals provide for the performance of new compositions. You will present two composition recitals during your junior and senior year, and many student composers present an additional large work, performed by our orchestra, wind ensemble or chorus.
Whether you like to sing, play or conduct, there are plenty of opportunities to perform. We offer over a dozen ensembles, including Choral Union, Ebony Heritage Singers, Flyer Pep Band, Pride of Dayton Marching Band, Symphonic Wind Ensemble, University Chorale, University Concert Band, University Orchestra, and jazz ensembles and combos, as well as vocal and instrumental chamber ensembles. Additional musical opportunities exist through Hands in Harmony (a sign language group), the Opera Workshop, an annual musical stage production and guest artist master classes.
The music department is a fully accredited member of the National Association of Schools of Music.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of our program enjoy successful careers in analyzing, creating or synthesizing music. Some have embarked on careers in arranging, composing, copying or teaching, while others pursue graduate studies in related fields.