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COMPOSITION

The Bachelor of Music in Composition degree embraces many different types of composers such as: Alternative, Rock, Blues, Metal, Hip-Hop, Jazz, Country, Classical, Video Game, Feature Film, Video, Animation, and Commercial.
 
The Composition and Songwriting program at McNally Smith offers a truly unique educational experience — an innovative course of study in compositional techniques and songwriting studies focused on contemporary music. Cutting edge in scope, a McNally Smith College of Music Bachelor of Music in Composition degree prepares students for a productive career at the forefront of today’s dynamic music industry.
 
Composition/Songwriting students are mentored, guided and inspired to find their own individual style and voice.

Course Catalog: (PDF)
Key Classes

Songwriting and Compositional Techniques I - IV :
This class sequence explores the art and craft of writing songs and compositions in the tradition of contemporary and popular music. Emphasis is on song construction, form, lyrics, inspiration, presentation, and collaborative techniques.
 
 Applied Music – Composition I - VI:
These one-on-one sessions give students an opportunity to explore their individual voice. All of the various compositional and song forms are addressed in this setting, leading up to the student’s senior composition recital. In the recital, each student will present her/his best compositional/songwriting work created over the four-year program. A student may choose to be one of the performers for the recital, or utilize talented musicians and singers from the wide pool of talent available at the school.
 
 Arranging I & II and arranging electives:
A good song can become great when arranged properly for various instrumentations, from a soloist with a guitar or piano to a full twenty-piece contemporary orchestra. In Arranging I & II students learn the basics of this important art and craft. Advanced arranging concepts may be explored in upper level arranging classes and electives.
 
 Film and Video Scoring I and II
These courses include the analysis and study of how scoring techniques are used to create music to accompany motion pictures, video, and television productions. Topics for study include: an introduction to film music, analysis and definition of the dramatic content of film, spotting, definition of cue points, creation and use of themes, and use of stylistic variation.
 

 

Commonly Searched Phrases: Music Composition College | Music Business College | Recording Arts School

DEGREES

CAREERS

  • Advertising
  • Arranging/Scoring
  • Film and Television Music
  • Jingles
  • Video Games
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