The music composition department at the University of Arizona School of Music is a creative hub for students who want to explore and shape today’s musical landscape. With a strong focus on contemporary classical music, we encourage students to develop their unique artistic voices while building a solid foundation in composition, performance, and musicianship.
Beyond the concert hall, our program embraces interdisciplinary collaboration, where music intersects with visual art, dance, theater, literature, science, and technology. Students also create multimedia works and work in collaborative team environment. These projects often grow into large-scale performances, installations, and immersive experiences that prepare students to think beyond boundaries and thrive in today’s diverse creative fields.
Students also gain hands-on experience with film music and other media-based projects, learning how to adapt their skills for a wide range of professional opportunities. By engaging in collaborative, innovative, and cross-disciplinary work, our students leave the program with the flexibility, vision, and confidence to succeed as artists in the 21st century.
Degree programs in Composition: Bachelor of Music (BM), Master of Music (MM), Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA).
COMPOSITION FACULTY
APPLY
BM in Performance: Composition
Prepare the following materials for your School of Music supplemental application.
- Résume or Curriculum Vitae
- Letter of Recommendation
- Composition Portfolio
- Three (3) pieces that are a representative cross-section of current work in various genres must be submitted. Audio recordings of submitted works should be included (MIDI realizations are acceptable but live recordings are preferred).
- Scores must be legible, clearly identified as to the title, composer, date of completion, etc.
- Electroacoustic works may be submitted. Please include a score if possible.
- Three (3) pieces that are a representative cross-section of current work in various genres must be submitted. Audio recordings of submitted works should be included (MIDI realizations are acceptable but live recordings are preferred).
- Applicants may also submit other supporting materials (articles, reviews, multimedia projects, etc.)
Steps to Apply:
International Applicants:
International applicants whose primary language is not English, or who attended school in a non-English speaking country, regardless of citizenship, much prove English proficiency.
More information on the International Admissions website.
MM/DMA in Composition
Prepare the following materials for your School of Music supplemental application.
- Résume or Curriculum Vitae
- Transcripts (GPA 3.0 minimum)
- Statement of Purpose (accomplishments, career plans, and your reason for applying to our program)
- Three (3) Letters of Recommendation
- Composition Portfolio
- Three (3) pieces that are a representative cross-section of current work in various genres must be submitted. Audio recordings of submitted works should be included (MIDI realizations are acceptable but live recordings are preferred).
- Scores must be legible, clearly identified as to the title, composer, date of completion, etc.
- Electroacoustic works may be submitted. Please include a score if possible.
- Three (3) pieces that are a representative cross-section of current work in various genres must be submitted. Audio recordings of submitted works should be included (MIDI realizations are acceptable but live recordings are preferred).
- Applicants may also submit other supporting materials (articles, reviews, multimedia projects, etc.)
International Applicants:
International applicants whose primary language is not English, or who attended school in a non-English speaking country, regardless of citizenship, much prove English proficiency.
More information on the International Admissions website.
