Berklee College of Music

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Jazz Composition (BMus)

Berklee College of Music

Faculty:Jazz Composition
Degree:Bachelor
Field of Study:Jazz/Jazz Studies
Music Theory and Composition
Length:4 Year(s)
Cost per year:*
National: $44,360

Cost per year represents tuition fees only.

Careers:Conductors, Composers and ArrangersMusicians and Singers

Description:

The student majoring in jazz composition will develop the creative application of the basic musical elements of melody, harmony, and rhythm in the contexts and practices associated with jazz music. Theoretical and compositional study will emphasize the development of contrapuntal skills, melodic and formal development, and techniques of instrumentation and orchestration. The student will demonstrate understanding of these skills and concepts with the completion of a portfolio of jazz compositions for ensembles of varying sizes and types, together with recordings that include public performances of selected pieces.

Through the study of acknowledged masters of jazz composition, as well as by attendance at clinics and concerts, the student will develop aesthetic vision and the critical ability to recognize and discuss quality elements in jazz composition. Interpersonal and situational skills will be developed as the student works with musicians and fellow composers, rehearsing and conducting public performances, and also through work with other students on their projects and concerts.

Prerequisites:

These courses are intended as guidelines. Speak to your guidance counsellor to see what courses are offered at your school.
    As an enrolled Berklee College of Music undergraduate student, you will be required to declare a major field of study by your third semester.

    Before declaring jazz composition as your major, you must complete AR-111 and HR-112.
    Test Scores:
    • Test of English as a Foreign Language (Internet Based) [min. 72] or International English Language Testing System (academic or immigration) [min. 6.0]
    Application Notes : If you are applying to the degree program and your first language is not English, you are required to submit a PTE Academic, a TOEFL, or an IELTS score to complete your application for admission. We recommend a PTE Academic score of 48, a TOEFL IBT score of 72 or higher, or a IELTS score of 6 or higher.
    Additional Admission Requirements:
      Berkleeā€™s unique audition and interview process allows us to learn about you as a whole artist while assessing your current level of musicianship and potential to succeed in our dynamic community. It also allows us to consider you for merit-based scholarship awards. The audition and interview, combined with your transcripts and supporting application materials, gives us a picture of who you are and where you have potential to grow.

      * We make every attempt to provide accurate information on prerequisites, programs, and tuition. However, this information is subject to change without notice and we highly recommend that you contact the school to confirm important information before applying.

      Modified on June 29, 2019