Music Composition

Compose for Instruments and Media

In the music composition option (MCOM), students write for large and small ensembles, score film and video game scenes, and program computer music. In the classes and lessons, students explore different techniques and technologies, while expanding their style. In and out of class, students collaborate on projects with other musicians, theatre and film directors, video game developers, installation artists, and creative coders. The weekly seminar is an opportunity to share and critique work, discuss compositional and career topics, hear from guest artists, and build community. 

Throughout the program, students develop a professional portfolio of their creative work, preparing them for graduate school or employment as composers. These works are performed and presented from media on their junior and senior recitals, annual composition area events, and student ensemble concerts. Their compositions are read by visiting professional ensembles, critiqued by visiting guest composers, and adjudicated for the annual Yee Prize.

Recent MCOM graduates have gone on to study at leading graduate schools and work as free-lance composers.

World-class faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and opportunities to collaborate with other student and faculty musicians, visual artists, theatre and film directors, game designers, and creative coders across campus make the MCOM degree option at Virginia Tech an ideal choice for composers.

Degree Program Options