Does anyone know if Grand Canyon University offers a degree in music composition? They offer a BA in instrumental performance and state that it can lead to jobs in arranging and composing music, but I’m not sure if it’s music composition. Link: https://www.gcu.edu/degree-programs/bachelor-arts-music-instrumental-performance
No, it is not a composition degree. It looks like they offer one class in orchestration/arranging and one in counterpoint. What exactly are you looking for in composition? Are you hoping to write music for games and film? Songs? Generally a college level composition BM degree will be focused on classical art music. Is that what you’re looking for? If not, a general BA, or a commercial music program might suit you better.
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I actually think this would be fine for someone who wants to work on composing. I assume it is a prerequisite to have some skill in playing an instrument and that practice, lessons and performance are required. That said, many many composition programs require an instrument as well.
A description from the site: “Advanced studies of the structure of music, including harmony, melody, form and rhythm, with an emphasis on skill development in analysis and composition.” Which you have seen.
So I looked up course descriptions and many of the theory classes include composition. I think a key question is whether the private lessons may include composition. It says “lessons in your instrument or area.” So ask…that language would seem to indicate it is possible.
You can certainly progress in composition with these classes and in this program. If you want to go to grad school you will need a portfolio of 3-4 pieces so also ask about performance opportunities for your compositions. Who performs them? Do they have guests to come play student works?
Alternatively, you can go to summer programs and get pieces for your portfolio played, that way. Ask if there is any funding for summer programs.
So, ask about lessons in composition, performance opportunities, and funding for summer.
Looks like a good program - good luck!
ps Here is something else from the site, which includes composing.
Future Careers for Bachelor of Arts in Music - Instrumental Performance Majors
The BA in Instrumental Performance is aligned to the standards of the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM) as a professional performance degree. The music performance degree is a versatile choice that can pave the way toward many rewarding career paths. It’s common for graduates to pursue careers as solo musicians, ensemble musicians, composers and private instructors. Other career choices that are related to this degree may include the following:
Music arranger/composer
Band director for sports, military, collegiate or K-12 bands
Music critic or reviewer
Music therapist
Some graduates of the BA in Music with an Emphasis in Instrumental Performance may seek positions within performance groups, private clubs or small bands. Others may pursue employment at film production agencies, radio stations, music stations, schools or arts organizations.
I am basically looking for a degree in music composition
What kind of composition do you want to study? What kind of music do you see yourself writing?
Somewhere from either songs with lyrics to scores for films/tv shows/video games.
Composers don’t have to get a “degree in composition.” They can do a general music major for a BA, which includes everything you need to study composition- as long as there are lessons and performances.
I guess what I wrote wasn’t clear.
It sounds like you may not want “composition” but instead “songwriting” (songs with lyrics as you said).
Or, a program for film scoring etc., which can be a creative program (often good to start with traditional composition) or a studio program.
If you want to work very specifically in any of these areas, you will have to assemble a portfolio and possibly audition.
I think your best course is to apply to a school that offers a general BA in music and get a foundation first.
If you want studio production, we can suggest programs for that.