Bachelor of Music in Music (Composition)
Hours: 120 On-Campus
About
The Bachelor of Music in Music (Composition) at Fort Hays State University is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to realize their musical visions. The program offers aspiring composers a comprehensive curriculum that develops their analytical, creative, and technical abilities. Through this rigorous training, students gain the expertise needed to express themselves artistically and pursue successful careers in composition.
Why pursue a Bachelor of Music in Music (Composition) at Fort Hays State University?
The B.M. in Music (Composition) program features a highly experienced faculty, with all composition instructors holding associate professor titles. These dedicated faculty members provide personalized mentorship and individual attention to each composition student.
The program’s smaller size creates a close-knit community, offering composition majors unique opportunities to take on leadership roles. Students actively participate in chamber music ensembles, present their original works at student recitals, and contribute to the annual New Music Festival held each spring.
Who is this program for?
This program is designed to inspire aspiring composers by nurturing their musical talents and providing the skills necessary to succeed in the music industry. It is particularly beneficial for:
- Aspiring musicians
- Musically inclined students
- Current music majors
- Those considering graduate study
Real-World Applications
The program extends beyond theory to emphasize real-world application, offering composition students daily performance opportunities in diverse contemporary music settings. These experiences provide invaluable insights into the practical aspects of music creation and performance, preparing graduates for successful careers across various fields.
Students work closely with renowned faculty members, including associate professors with extensive expertise in film scoring. Through performance lessons on their primary instrument combined with private composition instruction, students develop the skills to translate their musical ideas into original works while honing their performance abilities.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
The B.M. in Music (Composition) equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the dynamic field of music composition. The program acknowledges the vital role of computer-aided composition and electronic music production in contemporary music. Advanced courses integrate these emerging areas into the curriculum, enabling students to explore cutting-edge technologies alongside traditional compositional methods.
Hands-on Activities
The curriculum extends beyond traditional classroom instruction by offering a variety of hands-on experiences. Music students participate in orchestral performances, chamber groups, and vocal ensembles, fostering collaboration and artistic expression. Personalized instruction from renowned faculty further develops their technical skills and creative interpretation.
Additionally, students have opportunities to showcase their talents through regular public performances. This combination of experiential learning and performance prepares music majors for advanced studies or successful careers in performance, education, and related fields.
What You’ll Learn:
- Music theory
- Music history
- Composition
- Performance
- Music technology
How You’ll Learn:
- Engaging courses
- Faculty mentorship
- Performance opportunities
- Collaborative environment
- Real-world experience
The program centers on composition lessons, where students receive personalized instruction from associate professors within the Music and Theatre Programs. These courses focus on form, style, creative process, and critical thinking, preparing students to compose compelling scores for a variety of ensembles as well as vocal and instrumental performers.
MUS 181: Music Theory I
Study of fundamentals of notation and introduction to voice leading.
MUS 666: Applied Composition I
Music composition techniques for beginning composition students. Writing in sample forms and introduction of contemporary techniques.
MUS 361: World Music
An introduction to many styles of folk and classical music from around the world and the cultural causes and effects of this music.
Discover the full Bachelor of Music in Music (Composition) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue diverse and rewarding careers in the music industry, preparing them for a variety of exciting career paths, including:
Composer
Composers create original music for a wide range of purposes, including film, television, video games, theater, and concert performances. This role frequently involves collaborating with directors, producers, and performers to bring musical ideas to life.
Music Entrepreneur
Music entrepreneurs combine creative talent with business strategy to build their own ventures. This may include starting a production company, composing for commercial clients, or managing the careers of other musicians.
Music Teacher
Music teachers share their passion by educating and inspiring students of all ages. They may teach composition, theory, or performance in settings such as private studios, public schools, or colleges and universities.
Arranger
Arrangers transform existing musical pieces for different instruments or ensembles. This field requires a strong understanding of music theory and the ability to translate musical ideas across various formats.
Orchestrator
Orchestrators specialize in creating arrangements for orchestras and large ensembles. They possess a deep understanding of each instrument’s unique qualities and skillfully combine them to produce rich, cohesive musical textures.
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,055.95* (on-campus) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
This program equips dedicated music composition students with the tools to refine their creative voice and broaden their artistic range. Whether pursuing a music major or considering a double major, students may find the following related programs to be valuable complements to the B.M. in Music (Composition):
Fort Hays State University offers a range of scholarships to support students pursuing a B.M. in Music (Composition). These scholarships are open to students from all majors and require maintaining satisfactory academic performance, enrollment in music lessons, and participation in an ensemble.
As a composition major, you’ll participate in large ensembles (band, choir, and/or orchestra) and are encouraged to participate in small ensembles and chamber music.
Yes, the program heavily focuses on composition. You'll receive individualized guidance from faculty in composing original works for various ensembles and performers.
The program encourages students to participate in diverse styles of art and music, fostering creativity and flexibility. You'll have the opportunity to explore various musical styles, from traditional compositions to contemporary and electronic music, thanks to the program's inclusion of computer-aided composition and electronic music production in advanced courses.
This program is distinguished by its smaller size. It fosters a close-knit community and allows for one-on-one mentorship from dedicated faculty, all associate professors with extensive experience. This individualized attention helps develop your unique voice as a composer.
The curriculum covers core areas of music creation, including music theory, history, piano instruction, conducting, and music technology. Composition lessons are a focal point, offering individualized guidance on form, style, process, and creative thinking, equipping students to write scores for various ensembles and performers.
Yes, the program includes composition lessons emphasizing hands-on composition work, allowing students to receive individualized guidance from associate professors. Students can also showcase their compositions at student recitals and participate in the New Music Festival, providing real-world experience in music creation and performance.
Completing the B.M. in Music (Composition) opens various career paths, including roles as a composer, music entrepreneur, and music teacher in private studios, public schools, or higher education institutions. You can also be an arranger, transforming existing pieces for different instruments or ensembles, or an orchestrator, specializing in arrangements for orchestras or large ensembles.
Information about the School of Visual and Performing Arts
The School of Visual and Performing Arts at FHSU inspires creativity within a supportive and passionate community. Each program in Art and Design, along with Music and Theatre, offers students the opportunity to develop their talents and prepare for rewarding careers in the arts. Whether students aspire to create visual masterpieces, perform on stage, or educate the next generation, expert faculty provide hands-on learning experiences that both inspire and challenge.
With access to state-of-the-art facilities and personalized mentorship, students gain the skills and confidence needed to excel in their chosen fields. From local exhibitions and major performances to internships and professional development opportunities, these programs equip students with the tools to make a lasting impact in the world of visual and performing arts.
While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities.
- American Institute of Graphic Artists (AIGA): Connect with industry professionals and fellow graphic design students, attend conferences, and expand your network.
- Arts for Social Change: Use art as a catalyst for positive social change through lectures, workshops, and public events.
- Ceramica Clay Club (CCC): Participate in ceramic workshops, art events, and interdisciplinary projects that spread art into the community.
- FHSU Theater: Dive into acting, writing, and directing through performances and peer education programs.
- Fe Sculpture Club: Explore metalworking and host art events both on campus and in the community.
- Interior Design Student Organization (IDSA): Prepare for a career in interior design through networking, field trips, and professional development.
- Creative Arts Society (CAS): Enhance diversity and culture through guest-artist lectures, workshops, and community art projects.
- Collaborative Art Project (CAP): The Collaborative Art Project is a partnership between Amy Schmierbach, professor of art at Fort Hays State University, FHSU students, and Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas (DSNWK). Schmierbach and the students lead workshops for DSNWK individuals, offering structured art experiences focused on weaving, drawing, and photography. The project aims to expand access to the arts within the Hays community, creating more opportunities for individuals to engage with and benefit from artistic expression.
- Art Eaters Art History Club: The Art Eaters Art History Club is a community dedicated to fostering a deep appreciation and understanding of art across cultures and throughout history. Open to all students regardless of experience, the club offers opportunities to explore art movements, artists, and various forms through lectures, gallery visits, workshops, and discussions. With a mission to inspire creativity, critical thinking, and a lifelong passion for the arts, the club also connects members with influential figures in the art world and helps develop valuable skills such as curation. Through collaboration and dialogue, the club cultivates a deeper understanding of art’s cultural significance.
- Tiger Marching Band: This group is open to all students who enjoy marching band and want to be a part of the Tiger Marching Band tradition.
- Pep Band: The FHSU pep band provides musical entertainment for FHSU Basketball games. Open to all students.
- Collegiate National Association for Music Education (CNAfME): This student organization is dedicated to developing music education professionals, including workshops, training, field experiences, and annual participation in the Kansas Music Educators Association state conference in Wichita.
- Student National Association of Teachers of Singing (S-NATS): Vocalists participate in workshops, training, and attendance at the regional NATS workshop and competition each fall.
- Music Theatre: Participate in a fully realized stage production produced each year, from a stage role to back-stage positions and technical support.
- Bachelor's
- On-Campus
