About the Specialization
MFA Performer-Composer studies is designed for advanced students who are already accomplished composers and expert players, and who have identified a creative direction that demands the thoroughgoing integration of composition and performance in their work.
This course of study is structured to meet the needs of each individual practice as students immerse themselves intensively along the entire continuum of creative music-making. The MFA curriculum offers resources to help performer-composers develop the means to express their ideas in musical, spoken, written, recorded and various media forms; contextualize their own work and that of others in the light of current directions, historical antecedents and a wide range of aesthetic perspectives; and develop strategic plans and career pathways for sustaining their individual directions in creative music-making.
MFA performer-composers are required to pass a Mid-Residency Recital, a Graduation Jury and Recital and a Graduation Composition Portfolio Review in order to obtain the degree.