<p>Hello!
I am going to be a senior in highschool, and am very interested in contemporary music and composition. I have played piano for 6 years, and am taking vocal lessons as well. I have heard great things about Purchase's studio composition program, but I am a little confused about the audition requirements. Do they want original pieces in a classical style or contemporary? Should they be songs with lyrics? Any help will be appreciated. Thanks!</p>
<p>Here's a link to requirements-</p>
<p>Are you interested in studio composition (which is related to recording technology) or composition? They start out with the same 4 courses, and then are different programs of courses (see below from the website, first for the classes in common, then the first studio composition classes)</p>
<p>Composition: Undergraduate</p>
<p>Description revised (Models III, IV, VI) Fall 2011 (8/23/11):
Models I, II, III, IV, V, VI
MCO 1010, 1020, 2010, 2020, 3020, 3030
3 credits (per semester)
I, III, V: Fall; II, IV, VI: Spring
The core music theory curriculum for studio composition and studio production students, consisting of six sequential courses (IIV only for studio production). Studies in musical structure and syntax. An integrated presentation of melody, rhythm, harmony, counterpoint, and timbre. This course begins to explain the universal principles of proportion and beauty in all music.</p>
<pre><code>Music grammar, fundamental harmony, multiple musical traditions
Harmony, species counterpoint, phrase structures
Acoustics, proportion, harmonic series, monophony, species counterpoint
Tonal counterpoint, chromatic harmony, larger forms, jazz harmony and analysis
Pop music, harmonic and rhythmic analysis
Impressionism, expressionism, Fauvism, minimalism, post-tonality
</code></pre>
<p>Studio Composition I
MCO 1310 / 2 credits / Fall
The fundamental information needed to function as an engineer/producer in todays digitally driven recording environment. Includes an overview of the recording studio and in-depth technical information on the properties of sound, microphone design, cabling, digital audio converters, the Nyquist theorem, consoles, and signal processors. Students gain the working knowledge needed to be comfortable in the studio, together with skills in troubleshooting, maintenance, and engineering. Open to students in all disciplines with permission of instructor</p>
<p>Studio Composition II
MCO 1320 / 2 credits / Spring
In this technical exploration of the computer, how it is constructed, and its purpose in a modern recording studio, students gain a transparent view and working knowledge of technology, allowing for greater creative potential. Music-production software programs are explored, e.g., Digital Performer, Logic, Ableton Live, Reason, and Native Instruments. Students learn to troubleshoot and be comfortable in front of any modern computer system with multiple production software programs installed.
Prerequisite: MCO 1310 or permission of instructor</p>
<p>Studio Composition Seminar
MCO 1410 / 1 credit / Every semester
Group discussions and presentations of student works, together with analysis of music by a range of established composers, encompassing many different styles. Live performances and guest artists enhance class sessions. Required for studio composition majors. Grading is on a pass/no credit basis.</p>