EVDIV 151 - Elements of Composition (In Person or Online)

Daniel Felsenfeld, Hilary Purrington
This course offers an introduction to the elements of composition and related skills essential to being a professional composer. Compositional technique, form, process, and style will be explored through projects designed to encourage individual creative voice while providing parameters to steer one away from compositional and aesthetic constraints. The diverse nature of these assignments will allow for an array of techniques and styles to be explored without the commitment (and potential onus!) of adopting a single aesthetic. Classes will entail a combination of listening, score analysis and discussion, and the opportunity to present one’s music in a workshop setting. Weekly compositional assignments will be given, which will be read through and critiqued the following class. By the semester’s conclusion, the student will have composed three new works of varying instrumentation, each receiving an in-class reading featuring expert performers from the Juilliard College Division. This course requires extensive outside preparation.

Biography: Daniel Felsenfeld

Biography: Hilary Purrington

Pre-requisites: Strong foundation in Elements of Music Theory and proficiency in notating music by hand is recommended but not required. Access to a computer and familiarity with a music software program like Sibelius or Finale are preferred. Prospective students are encouraged to consider taking Elements of Music Theory, Introduction to Ear Training, and/or Keyboard Skills I to enhance their preparation for this course.

This is a yearlong course. Students may join in either fall or spring; however, spring placements are contingent on midyear vacancies.

This course requires an online application to be considered for placement. Application deadline: Monday, August 25 @ 5pm ET.

Three Sections Available | 13 Classes Total | Extension Holiday Schedule

Credits: 0

EVDIV 151 01:

Thursdays 5:30–7:30pm ET

September 18–December 18

Faculty: Daniel Felsenfeld

Mode: In Person

EVDIV 151 02:

Mondays 5:30–7:30pm ET

September 15–December 15

Faculty: Daniel Felsenfeld

Mode: In Person

EVDIV 151 03:

Thursdays 5:30–7:30pm ET

September 18–December 18

Faculty: Hilary Purrington

Mode: Online

$1,170 plus $140 lab fee per semester

APPLY ONLINE | (Application Instructions)