Program Overview
The Theory and Composition (Theory), BMUS program at Arizona State University offers concentrations in theory or composition, preparing students for careers in music theory, composition, and teaching. Graduates pursue careers in arranging, composing, music production, and teaching, with opportunities for further studies and global experiences.
Program Outline
Program: Theory and Composition (Theory), BMUS
Degree Overview:
- Objectives:
- This program allows students to choose either a concentration in theory or composition.
- It prepares students to pursue careers related to music theory, composition, and teaching.
- Provides a deep understanding of music theory and how it applies to different styles and eras.
- Description:
- Theory concentration: Explores various facets like tonal harmony, music perception, formal analysis, counterpoint, 20th and 21st-century music, popular music analysis, and jazz.
- Composition concentration: Provides the opportunity to develop composing skills.
- Offers courses like Arranging, Composer, Orchestration, Performance, Strings, Theorist, Woodwind, conducting, composing, voice.
- Research-intensive environment with faculty specializing in music cognition, tonal music, timbre, embodiment, popular music, and computational analysis.
Outline:
- Concentration Options: Theory or Composition
- Theory concentration courses:
- Tonal Harmony I and II
- Music Perception and Cognition
- Formal Analysis
- Counterpoint I and II
- Topics in 20th and 21st-Century Music
- Popular Music and Jazz Analysis
- Composition concentration courses:
- Music Composition I, II, III, IV, V
- Orchestration
- Arranging
- Composition Seminar
- Composition Studio
- Other required courses:
- Music History I and II
- Music and Culture
- Music Theory Pedagogy
- **Major Map (available online for specific years) provides an overview of the required courses and their sequence.
Teaching:
- Emphasis on individual study with faculty.
- Encourages collaboration and critique in seminars and studio settings.
- Faculty includes renowned professionals who conduct workshops and offer masterclasses.
Careers:
- Potential career paths:
- Arranging
- Arts Administration
- Composing
- Music production
- Musicology
- Music librarian
- Teaching in community and professional ensembles
- Teaching theory and composition in private studios and community programs
- Performing with community orchestras and music groups
- Art Professor - 3.2% growth, median salary $77,280
- Music Producer - 1.1% growth, median salary $62,940
- Musical Instrument Repairers and Tuners - -9.4% growth, median salary $38,150
- Graduates pursue further studies with Master's or Doctorate degrees in various fields.
Other:
- Global experience opportunities include study abroad programs with a focus on music theory and cultural immersion.
- Emphasis on critical and analytical skills applicable to different artistic and creative processes.
- Graduates are highly sought-after in professional fields, arts education, and academic research thanks to the comprehensive skillset.
Entry Requirements:
General University Admission Requirements:
All students must meet the general university admission requirements, regardless of their origin.
High School Graduation:
- A high school diploma or equivalent from an accredited institution.
- Official transcripts from all high schools attended.
Minimum GPA:
- A minimum cumulative high school GPA of 3.00.
- Individual programs may have higher GPA requirements.
Standardized Test Scores:
- SAT or ACT scores are optional for admission to ASU.
Additional Requirements:
- Non-native English speakers may be required to demonstrate English proficiency through a standardized test such as the TOEFL or IELTS.
- International students may also need to provide documentation of their visa status.
Specific Requirements for Music Programs:
In addition to the general university admission requirements, students applying to the School of Music, Dance and Theatre must also meet the following requirements:
Audition:
All applicants must submit an audition video or participate in a live audition. Live auditions are held in November, January, and February.
Music Application:
In addition to the general application, students must also submit a separate music application that includes:
- A personal statement
- A resume
- Letters of recommendation
- A list of music experience
- High school transcripts showing music courses taken
Music Theory and Composition Program Specific Requirements:
Students applying to the Music Theory and Composition program must also have:
- A strong foundation in music theory, including knowledge of basic harmony, counterpoint, and form.
- The ability to read and write music notation.
Second Language Requirement:
This program does not have a second language requirement.
Transfer Admission Requirements:
Transfer students must meet the general university admission requirements as well as the specific requirements for the Music Theory and Composition program. They must also have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50.
International Admission Requirements:
International students must meet all of the general university admission requirements for international students as well as the specific requirements for the Music Theory and Composition program. They must also demonstrate English proficiency through a standardized test such as the TOEFL or IELTS. Specific requirements may vary depending on the applicant's background and the year of admission.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
Non-native English speakers are required to demonstrate English proficiency by achieving a minimum score on one of the following tests:
- TOEFL: 80
- IELTS: 6.5
- PTE Academic: 58
- Duolingo English Test: 105 Students who have completed a degree from an English-speaking institution within the past two years may be exempt from the English proficiency requirement.
- The School of Music, Dance and Theatre offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help students with the cost of attendance.
