College of Arts and Humanities
Music Composition
Bachelor of Music | Major
Bachelor of Music in Music Composition
Ignite innovation in theory and composition.
Our Music Composition program is intended for those whose primary interest is studying composition. Our coursework requires high musicianship, shown through performance of primary instruments and a basic understanding of music theory.
Questions? Contact Us.
Department of Music
You Belong Here
What You'll Study
Academic Catalog | Music Department Website
Core Courses
Music Theory
- MUS 144 - Theory 1
- MUS 144A - Aural Skills 1
- MUS 145 - Theory 2
- MUS 145A - Aural Skills 2
- MUS 146 - Theory 3
- MUS 146A - Aural Skills 3
- MUS 244 - Theory 4
- MUS 245 - Theory 5
- MUS 246 - Theory 6
Class Piano
- MUS 152A - Class Piano I
- MUS 153A - Class Piano II
- MUS 154A - Class Piano III
Ensembles
Primary Ensembles
- Wind Ensemble
- Choir
- Chamber Choir
- Symphonic Winds
- Orchestra
- Marching Band
- Symphonic Band
- Vox Divina Soprano/Alto Choir
- Wildcat Tenor/Bass Chorus
- Chamber Orchestra
Chamber Ensembles
- Flute Choir
- Brass Choir
- Chamber Music Ensemble
- Vocal Chamber Music
- Jazz Combo
- Percussion Ensemble
- Opera Workshop
- Opera Production
- Accompanying Practicum
Applied Music
- MUS 300 - Recital Performance
- MUS 400 - Recital Performance
Individual Instruction
- MUS 164 - Major Applied Area (Individual Instruction)
- MUS 264 - Major Applied Area (Individual Instruction)
- MUS 364 - Major-applied Area (Individual Instruction)
Conducting
- MUS 341 - Conducting I
- MUS 342 - Conducting II
Music History
- MUS 359 - Survey of Music in Cross-cultural Perspectives
- MUS 372 - Music History 1
- MUS 373 - Music History 2
- MUS 374 - Music History 3
Required Courses
Upper-division Music Theory
- MUS 340 - Form and Analysis
- MUS 343 - Counterpoint I
- MUS 346 - Counterpoint II
- MUS 401 - Introduction to Music Technology
- MUS 422 - Orchestration
- MUS 423 - Advanced Orchestration
- MUS 440 - Analytical Techniques II
Music Composition
- MUS 120 - Composition 1
- MUS 220 - Composition 2
- MUS 320 - Composition 3
- MUS 420 - Composition 4
Secondary Applied Area (Keyboard)
- MUS 171A - Secondary Applied Area Piano
- MUS 255 - Jazz Harmony and Keyboard
Additional Courses
- Music Electives
- MUS 402 - Electronic Music Composition
Diverse Composition Styles
Explore a wide range of composition techniques, including orchestral, choral, chamber, electronic, and film music, providing a comprehensive foundation in both traditional and contemporary styles.
Performance Opportunities
Hear your compositions performed by CWU’s talented ensembles, offering real-world experience in writing for live musicians and receiving professional feedback.
State-of-the-Art Technology
Utilize CWU’s music technology labs, equipped with industry-standard software and hardware for electronic music composition, recording, and editing.
Faculty Expertise
Study under accomplished composers who are active in the field, providing you with mentorship and insights into the professional world of music composition.
Apply
Discover how to apply to your program of choice at Central.
Financial Aid
Our Financial Aid staff are here to help you navigate financial aid.
Student Life
Pursue your interests in a supportive community. Learn more.
Visit
The best way to discover what makes CWU so special is to experience it yourself.
and Collaborate
Our program emphasizes collaboration with performers, giving you the chance to regularly workshop your pieces and refine them through live performances.
Class Sizes
Experience a personalized education with small class sizes that allow you to get to know your professors and classmates.
for Scholarships
Over 40 different waivers and scholarships are available to music students, totaling $260,000 awarded annually.
Why Study Music at Central?
- Experience a wide range of music courses, from theory and history to performance and analysis, giving you a well-rounded foundation in music.
- Choose from a variety of music electives that align with your interests and goals in performance, composition, music history, and more.
- Engage with students from other artistic disciplines, such as film and theatre, to create multimedia projects that expand your experience beyond traditional music settings.
- Perform in nationally and internationally recognized ensembles led by world-renowned conductors, showcasing your talents on prominent stages around the world.
Recent Alumni Success
Composer
Producer
College professor in theory and composition
Founder of Grammy-winning A Cappella Female Group