Theory and Composition (Theory)

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.