Music Composition

Student Perspectives

“You get to meet people from different disciplines. I hang out with jazzers, and all these different majors. I feel like that isn’t typical for most music schools.”

Brock Daumler ’23
Music (Composition)
Green Bay, Wisconsin

Explore Life After Lawrence

Apr 27, 2023

Student Profile

Jasper Kashou finds joy as composer, performer

Academics

Find Your Voice at Lawrence

Lawrence Conservatory Voice Students share their connection with music and performance. From the stage to recording studio, students share how they find and develop their unique voice at Lawrence.

Bikes on bridge with colorful row houses in background in Amsterdam, Netherlands

Study Off Campus

Amsterdam School of Music

Combine a large conservatory with a bustling global city and take advantage of all the musical opportunities Amsterdam has to offer from classical to contemporary.

Explore Courses

Discover an array of courses that will teach you composing, arranging, orchestration, and more.

Composition Courses

See Major Requirements

Explore what comprises a major in music composition.

Requirements

Expert Faculty

Talented composers will guide you on your composition journey.

Meet Our Faculty

Sonja Klusman plays the piano with Matt Turner, Instructor of Music, during his Applied Musicianship II class

Musical Mentoring

The composition studio encourages your individuality to shine through each note you write. Faculty help you develop into a mature, professional composer with a unique point of view. Engage in sophisticated and nuanced artistic interaction and analysis. Be supported and guided while being pushed outside of your comfort zone to discover the true extent of your potential and possibilities. Your individual artistry is respected as faculty help you focus on craft and technique to develop a sound that is truly your own.

two monitors displaying music editing software sits on a table, with a speak on either side of them

Tools of the Trade

You'll have access to a wide array of tools and technology, including an electronic music studio and software like Finale, Sibelius, and Logic Pro.

Student plays intrument on dark stage. Spot light is shining

New Music, Your Music

With a studio recital every term, the New Music at Lawrence concert series, opportunities to write for one of the large ensembles, workshops, and more, you have so many opportunities to write, perform, and experience composition and performance.

Pride in your work

You'll be prepared for a life of music creation, whatever your path. Faculty work with you to prepare a portfolio that showcases your best work, including impeccable score notation and high-quality recordings that represent your achievements.

The Power of Collaboration

What happens when you combine a world-class conservatory with a world-class college? An unmatched undergraduate musical education. At Lawrence, the Conservatory and College experiences are intertwined. Multiple degree options let you be your own muse by connecting your musical passions with your academic interests.

Discover Degree Options

Performance & Ensemble Opportunities

Performance and ensemble opportunities abound, from large orchestras to small chamber ensembles, choirs to jazz bands. Explore a diverse range of styles and repertoires and take part in professional performance alongside your peers.

Discover Ensembles