Composition

The Composition and Electro-Acoustic music program offers intensive studies in music composition at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The teaching and learning approach is straightforward: compose, perform the work, listen, learn and compose again.

Undergraduate students are guided through a series of studies designed to develop skills contemporary techniques and musical vocabulary. The objectives of lower-division courses are exploratory in nature, focusing on various methods and musical styles. In upper-division courses the emphasis is on developing an individual style. Graduate students, in addition to the required courses, are assisted in the preparation of a thesis in the form of an original composition. The outlets for performance of compositions are numerous: from student performers interested in playing new works to formal ensembles that will read student compositions. Advanced students, under instructor supervision, create electro-acoustic compositions using the latest computer technology. In addition, through our collaboration with the TRFT Department (TV, Radio, Film, Theatre) students are able to develop projects for visual media.

Faculty

Dr. Pablo Furman, coordinator
Dr. Brian Belet (music systems)
Hagé van Dijk (recording)
Dr. Daniel Wyman

Audition Information

All those interested in studying composition must audition by presenting two or three representative compositions including scores and recordings. In addition, each applicant must be able to discuss any three of the following works with the audition committee and one other work of the applicant's personal choice. Graduate applicants select five examples. These works can be found in the main library at San José State University and in the libraries of most local universities and colleges, as well as city libraries.

Compositions list for audition - Please, see the Student Handbook.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get accepted into the composition program?

1. Audition (in composition, instrument of choice, and major ensemble).

2. Take Music placement or advisory tests.

3. (Graduate level) Have two letters of recommendation sent to us from former composition teachers.

How do I audition for the composition program?

On the audition date, bring a portfolio of three compositions of varied instrumentation. Be ready to discuss three works from the contemporary literature. Also, be prepared to audition in your instrument of choice and one of the major performing ensembles. You must be accepted into a studio for applied lessons and be accepted into a major performing ensemble to a composition major.

When can I audition?

Auditions are held at the beginning of each semester on the day right before classes start (referred to as “Advisement Day). For exact date, check the schedule of classes.

What should I include in my audition portfolio?

Scores and recordings if possible (two for undergraduates, three for graduates).

Do you accept students that write tonal music?

Of course.

What should I prepare to discuss in relation to contemporary music?

What we are looking for is a basic knowledge of the pieces you choose to discuss. We don’t expect a theoretical analysis. Instead, we want to hear what you think about the piece, what is significant about it and why.

What level of skill is expected?

Undergraduates, lower division students should be able to demonstrate a basic skill level in structural and harmonic development. An example would be a simple work for solo instrument, duo, or a short string quartet piece.

Will I be expected to write in an atonal music style?

All students develop their own particular style by the end of the program, whether it is tonal or not. We do not impose any particular style. However, everyone has to learn the principles of contemporary practices including those characterized as “atonal.”

Do you teach pop music composition?

We offer studies in traditional, classical music composition only. The rigorous and comprehensive composition training at SJSU enables students to write in any style. We have an excellent jazz studies program and students are encouraged to participate in it and compose jazz charts. However, this is not part of the requirements of composition students.

Do I need to know how to play an instrument?

At the undergraduate level all students, including composition majors (as well as BA with music technology emphasis), must perform in a major ensemble each semester they are enrolled in applied lessons. Thus they need to audition in their instrument of choice or voice (solo skill level) and be accepted by the performance area as well.

Is the Music Technology emphasis like a “recording engineering” degree?

Although recording is one of the areas of specialty, students in the program are trained in a range of sound and music creative skills. Examples are sound synthesis, computer interaction, live and studio recording of various types of ensembles and soloists (classical and jazz style recording techniques), creative sound/music editing, sound design, script programming as related to sound synthesis, and others.

How do I audition for the BA with emphasis in Music Technology?

You need to demonstrate facility with music technology. The best way to do this is to submit a demo CD of two projects you have done recently. In addition, you must be ready to take undergraduate theory courses, and be able to play an instrument in a major ensemble or sing in the choir. Remember, this is a “music” program and it is focused on the artistic/creative aspects of the craft. We place emphasis on listening skills and musical acuity, skills that characterize all good music technicians.

Do I need to audition for the Music Minor with emphasis in Music Technology?

No. The Music Minor is a great path for those who already have a Major and want to complement it with solid training in technology as it relates to sound and music but without most of the theoretical and performance requirements of the Major. The Music Minor offers access to all our technology courses and the ability to participate in collaborative sound and multimedia projects in the Music program and other departments. Students take a minimum of music specific courses. Contact the Music Minor Advisor for more details.

What kind of software do you utilize?

We use a variety of programs. Our methodology is to teach concepts and creative approaches to music and sound projects. The goal is to help students acquire knowledge and skills that are not dependent on specific technology, which may soon become obsolete. However, to give you an idea of what we currently have: there are four studios. Two dedicated to music synthesis and sound design, and two to recording and digital audio editing. We use Apple Macintosh computers with Digidesign audio interfaces. The synthesis studios, are equipped with 4.1 sound systems, Pro Tools, Bias Peak, Native Instruments Reaktor, Digital Performer, Unisyn and related programs, plus several hardware synthesizers and modules. For live sound diffusion we have a 4,000+ Watt (continuous) sound system including eight active 3-way speaker columns, large subwoofer, stage monitors, Yamaha digital console, plus dedicated outboard room EQ and related gear.