Is there a predominant compositional style among faculty and students at Peabody?

There is no “Peabody style” of composing. Both faculty and students write in a variety of styles, genres, and media. The stated goal of our faculty is to help you identify and realize your compositional goals.

How difficult is it to have one’s music played at Peabody?

Not difficult. Student works are heard in a variety of settings. There are six departmental recitals offered each year. Composition students recruit their own performers, who are paid by the department for their time. There are also five large ensemble readings a year — three by the Peabody Symphony Orchestra and one each by the Peabody Wind Ensemble and Peabody Singers. Student works on these readings are selected competitively by the composition faculty.

There are numerous other performance opportunities for student composers. Composers may present individual recitals, student-led ensembles often perform student works. There are also several programs offered periodically that connect student composers and performers, for example the 24-hour Concert, Opera Études, and New Chamber Music.

What should I submit in my application portfolio?

The application portfolio allows our faculty members during the prescreening and interviewing process to evaluate examples of music you have written, and you should therefore submit works that you feel represent your best work. See the above requirements for each degree. Do not submit original scores. They will not be returned to you.

What classes will I be required to take?

The curriculum for all degree programs is stated in Peabody’s academic catalog. Current curricula for the B.M. degree is found on pages 52–53, for the M.M degree on page 88, and for the D.M.A. degree on page 103. Course descriptions may be found on pages 123–160

Can I study computer music as a student at Peabody?

Computer music study is incorporated into the B.M. and M.M. degree. All undergraduate students and only graduate students without prior documented computer music study must take Introduction to Computer Music. Students may also elect to take advanced courses offered by the Computer Music Department.

If you are primarily interested in writing computer music, you may wish to apply instead to the computer music composition degree, offered by the Computer Music Department at the undergraduate and graduate levels.

Where can I learn more about the Composition Department?

Our department handbook presents detailed information on the opportunities offered by the Composition Department. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to peruse this handbook. Applicants to the D.M.A. program are also encouraged to peruse the Office of Academic Affairs’ D.M.A. Guidelines, which outline the academic requirements and procedures for doctoral programs at Peabody.

Whom should I contact with further questions?

Tristan Latchford, the department’s graduate assistant, is available to answer any further questions. He may be reached by e-mail at [email protected].