Mar 28, 2024  
2023-2024 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2023-2024 Undergraduate Catalog

Music Performance, Composition Concentration, B.M.


This degree concentration is designed for those who wish to prepare for a career in music composition and those who plan to do graduate work in composition. The program aims to instill students with a thorough understanding of both traditional and contemporary compositional tools and prompts students to engage in the discourse surrounding the making of new music in our society. Private lessons, participation in the USM Composers Ensemble, regular composition and performance of new works, and classes in counterpoint and analysis are emphasized.

Program Requirements


The minimum number of credits required for the degree is 120.

All music performance composition students will complete Jury Level 1 at the end of their 2nd semester, Jury Level 2 at the end of their 4th semester, and Jury Level 3 at the end of their 6th semester. Students must perform a check jury in the semester in which jury levels are not being completed. Jury Level 3 must be successfully completed prior to the presentation of their Senior Recital.

All music performance composition students must pass a juried proficiency examination in their applied area; this exam will be graded pass/fail.

The senior recital for music performance majors specializing in composition will meet the following requirements: The recital should consist of 45 minutes of original music for a variety of ensembles (at least 3) ranging from solo to large chamber group. The music on the recital must have been composed during the student’s time at USM. Programming for the senior recital should be selected under the guidance of the applied instructor. Programs exceeding 45 minutes of music require the special approval of the faculty.

Music History (12 credits)


Functional Piano (4 credits)


Conducting (4 credits)


Applied Music (27 credits)


Ensemble Requirements (5 credits)


Additional Courses


Admission Information


Admission is based on the following criteria:

  1. Performance audition on the applicant’s major instrument and a portfolio review of compositions.
  2. Tests of aural comprehension, rhythmic recitation, and sight singing administered individually by a member of the staff.
  3. A diagnostic written test of music fundamentals, including intervals, scales, chords, and key signatures.

USM Core Requirements


The USM Core Curriculum is a coherent, integrative, and rigorous liberal education that enables our graduates to be world-minded, intentional, life-long learners and captures your general education degree requirements. 

Please Note: Core requirements may be part of your major and/or minor, and Core may have been fulfilled with transfer credit. Please consult your MaineStreet Degree Progress Report (DPR) and review your degree progress with your Advisor.  For additional information, access the USM Core webpage.