I plan on transferring to a school in Arizona or near my home in Southern California. I am going to major in music and do not know whether to major in music composition or commercial music/technology. Can some explain the difference between both? I want to major in something where I can perform and create music.
I wrote in the other thread, that you can just major in music for a BA and get exposure to both these areas, and others.
You are not going to get into a BM program without a portfolio, maybe an audition, and some experience.
Composition is usually classical, and you study theory and technology as well within a music major. That can sometimes lead to film scoring. Many applicants have some considerable experience or body of work when they apply.
This NOT songwriting. And you need musicians to play pieces, which can be a challenge.
Commercial music is a whole different thing, as is studio work. There are specific programs for that too, some of which are competitive.
Since you don’t have experience and don’t know what you want to do, or actually know what these things are, it seems clear that you need to get a BA in a general music major, and then decide what you want to focus on. The only problem with this is that it will be only 1/4-1/3 courses in music with gen eds.
Unless you have done work in these areas that I don’t know about, which you may have, this is really the best path. If you already write songs or produce music, that is different.
I would think most state colleges and universities in Arizona or CA could meet your needs, though they tend to have BM programs. Have you toured and visited the music departments?
If you can find a BM program that does not require experience, a portfolio or an audition , consider that.
Look up Columbia College Chicago for instance. Though merit aid may be an issue without experience.
There are also some liberal arts colleges (again, a BA, generally with gen eds) where you might thrive. I know you want AZ or CA but for an example, google Bennington College music. Lewis and Clark would be an equivalent on the West Coast maybe/
How many gen eds have you already covered?
Also, many composers start composing during or after college. You can start on your own with a teacher. You don’t necessarily have to major in it but if you made sufficient progress you might be able to transfer.