Program Overview

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NZSM 401: Creative Research in Composition

Course Description

The NZSM 401 course involves supervised independent study in composition or sonic arts, resulting in a portfolio of compositions and/or sound-based works. A proposal outlining the intended work for this course must be approved by the Director of the New Zealand School of Music prior to the enrollment deadline.

Course Details

• Dates: 23 February 2026 to 8 November 2026
• Starts: Trimester 1+2
• Fees:
  • NZ$2,540.70 for domestic students
  • NZ$11,081.40 for international students
• Lecture Start Times: Monday, 11:00 am
• Campus: Kelburn
• Estimated Workload: Approximately 300 hours or 8.1 hours per week for 37 weeks
• Points: 30

Entry Restrictions

• Prerequisites: Portfolio
• Corequisites: None
• Restrictions: None

Taught By

The New Zealand School of Music — Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences

Disclaimer

This course outline may be subject to change.

Key Dates

Important dates, including mid-trimester teaching breaks, can be found on the University's key dates calendar. Assessment dates will be provided once the course has begun.

About This Course

The work for this course consists of a proposal and the completion of a portfolio of compositions and/or sound-based works, along with documentation of these projects as required. There are no set classes for this course; students work independently, meeting regularly with staff members in supervision meetings.

Course Learning Objectives

Students who pass this course will be able to:

1. Complete an approved portfolio of compositions and/or sound-based works that evidences an individual creative voice and clear technical command in the chosen medium.
2. Demonstrate the consolidation of creative abilities garnered at the undergraduate level and advancement upon these through the completion of the portfolio.
3. Prove the ability to propose, produce, and critically comment upon an independent, self-directed project.

How This Course Is Taught

• This course is delivered in-person only, and students are required to attend on campus.
• The course is taught as individual lessons with a nominated supervisor or supervisors.
• Students are also required to attend the weekly Composer Workshop and the fortnightly Creative Research Seminars.

Composer Workshop

Held on Wednesdays during term time in the Adam Concert Room, this workshop brings together all composition, sonic arts, and music technology students to listen to invited guests, student works, and participate in group discussions.

Creative Research Seminar

Held on Tuesdays, fortnightly in Trimester One, this seminar aids students in writing their creative research commentary, featuring presentations by staff and practical tips.

Assessment

• Draft Portfolio: 30%
• Written Commentary: 15%
• Final Portfolio: 55%

Assessment Dates and Extensions

Once enrolled, students can use the University's online learning environment to see due dates for assessments and information about extensions.

Mandatory Requirements

To pass this course, students must:

1. Attend at least 6 of the Composer Workshops (if working in a non-jazz idiom) or at least 3 (if working in a jazz idiom) held during every trimester of enrollment.
2. Present a recital of the submitted works to the satisfaction of the supervisor (if working in a jazz idiom).

Lecture Times and Rooms

• 23 February 2026 to 5 April 2026
• 20 April 2026 to 31 May 2026

What You'll Need to Get

No specific texts or equipment are required for this course.

Course Coordinator

Michael Norris