Music Performance — Composition Concentration, Bachelor of Music

Bachelor of Music (BM)

Undergraduate Major

Modes of study:

Blended
·
In person

Master the art of music composition at USM

Develop your creative voice and prepare for a career in music composition with a Bachelor in Music with a concentration in Music Composition at the University of Southern Maine (USM). Through rigorous study of music theory, history and contemporary compositional practices, you’ll build the technical skills and artistic perspective to create new music and engage with the evolving world of composition.

Located on USM’s Portland campus, the Dr. Alfred & D. Suzi Osher School of Music offers a supportive environment where you can explore your interests and develop your unique voice as a composer.

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The requirements and courses needed to graduate with this degree are based on the academic catalog that applies to your start year.

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Program duration

Typical completion time: four years. Flexible options may help save time.

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School

Osher School of Music

Admissions

Audition required for admittance to the Osher School of Music. SAT and ACT scores optional. Early action and year-round admissions.

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The benefits of a USM Music Performance degree in composition

Compose with cutting-edge technology: Build a standout composition portfolio using the facilities, technology, and creative spaces shaping the future of the music industry. The Crewe Center for the Arts features acoustically optimized spaces, professional-grade recording technology, a 200-seat performance hall, and more than 40 performance and practice rooms. You’ll also have access to fully networked Dante-enabled spaces, professional-grade soundproofed studios, and the tools you need to bring your original compositions to life.
Study at Maine’s first collegiate All-Steinway institution: With 26 Steinway and Steinway-designed pianos — including three Spirios with expressive playback systems — you’ll develop your artistry using world-class instruments in every stage of your education.
Receive personalized training: Learn from distinguished faculty as you build a strong foundation in music history, theory, sight-singing, aural skills, and piano. Through private lessons, one-on-one mentorship, and frequent performance opportunities, you’ll refine your technique and gain confidence as a performer.
Achieve world-class training at public university tuition rates: Earn a high-quality music education from distinguished faculty using state-of-the-art gear and spaces while benefiting from the value of a public university.
Perform on campus and throughout Southern Maine: The Crewe Center’s performance hall is built to be just the right size for your range as a student — not only will the Osher School of Music’s longstanding performance traditions ensure you take the stage, our central location gives you access to gain additional experience through performance opportunities across Greater Portland’s vibrant arts community.
Build your professional network in Southern Maine: Utilize USM’s broad network of partners to find internships and performance opportunities that will build your resume with USM’s partner organizations such as Opera Maine.
360-Degree performance opportunities: Beyond the ensembles you can audition for based on your musical interests, you’ll have opportunities to perform in student recitals in state-of-the-art music halls, participate in masterclasses in technology-rich classrooms with large interactive screens and real-time Zoom capabilities, and experience performances by internationally renowned guest musicians.

Enjoy performing in one of USM's many ensembles during the university's performance season.

Engage in the USM Performance Season

While at USM, you’ll have the opportunity to audition for one or more of our ensembles, including:

Southern Maine Symphony Orchestra
University Concert Band and Osher Wind Ensemble
Jazz Ensemble, Vocal Jazz Ensemble, and Composers’ Ensemble
University Chorale
USM Chamber Singers
Opera and musical theatre

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What could your career look like after earning your music performance degree in composition from the University of Southern Maine?

Learning and studying at USM will help you get one step closer to becoming a composer.

Awaken your artistic vision

Students from the University of Southern Maine’s composition program have been accepted at the most prestigious graduate programs and have had their work performed throughout the country. Resources available through the Osher School of Music will make you a better musician, thanks to top-of-the-line software and other advantages.

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Tuition & fees Financial aid Scholarships

Current residents of New England attending USM may qualify for a NEBE tuition break.

New England resident? You may qualify for reduced tuition!

If you live in New England, applying for this program qualifies you for a significantly reduced tuition rate, thanks to the New England Board of Higher Education (NEBHE) Tuition Break program.

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Earn a NASM-accredited degree

The Osher School of Music at USM is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM), demonstrating the program’s commitment to rigorous academic and professional standards. When you choose USM for your music degree, you’ll receive an education designed to prepare you for a successful future in composition and the broader music industry.

Learn about NASM accreditation

USM is proud to have NASM accreditation.

Imagine what could be in store for you while majoring in Music Performance with a concentration in Composition!

Next steps

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Music Performance — Composition Concentration, Bachelor of Music