Interlochen's music composition program is designed for motivated young composers. Participants will work in a state-of-the-art technology lab, hear their new pieces performed in a series of composition recitals and chamber music/large-ensemble readings, and receive professional recordings of their compositions performed during the summer. Students work with world-renowned composers, teachers and guest composers-in-residence in this six-week program that emphasizes quality and personal growth.
Recent guests include Tan Dun (Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon), Grammy Award winner Libby Larsen, and orchestra, band and dance composer John Mackey.
Private composition lessons twice per week with an experienced composer.
Seminar in compositional techniques and issues will be held in classrooms equipped with electronic pianos for completing individual topic-based projects.
Music theory class (note: students with sufficient demonstrable skill may be excused from this requirement)
Orchestration class will cover scoring music for orchestra and band instruments.
A survey of concert music since 1900 will cover important works and composers.
Work in the technology lab will focus on Finale and Sibelius notation software and related skills. The state-of-the-art lab features Mac computers with MOTU Digital Performer software running Native Instruments synthesis software. Students should also bring a laptop.
One additional elective class is optional (view list).
Ensembles
Composition students will compose for and have their music read and recorded by outstanding musicians in the following chamber groups:
- Advanced string quartet
- Honor woodwind and brass quintets, sax quartet or percussion ensembles
Select students will also compose for and have their music read and recorded by the following ensembles:
- World Youth Symphony Orchestra
- Interlochen Philharmonic
- World Youth Honors Choir
- World Youth Wind Symphony
How to Apply
- Prepare the materials listed below.
- Complete the online application.
- Submit your audition materials online.
Required Materials
- Three compositions than demonstrate the applicant's skill and technical abilities. Please submit .mp3 recordings and .pdf scores of your compositions.
- A résumé in .pdf format that includes the following: your primary instrument, years of study, a list of compositions written and performed, and a description of any previous formal training in composition. Previous instruction in composition is not required.
Additional Opportunities
Interlochen is also home to the Arts Academy boarding high school, which also offers a major in music composition for grades 9-12, as well as a post-graduate year.
Faculty
Dr. Alexis Bacon
Instructor of Music Theory, Composition and Electronic Music, Interlochen Arts Camp
Dr. Robert Brownlow
Instructor of Music Composition and Theory, Interlochen Arts Camp
William Cooper
Instructor of Theory/Composition, Interlochen Arts Camp
Dr. Rob Deemer
Instructor of Music Theory and Composition, Interlochen Arts Camp
Dr. Robert Mueller
Instructor of Music Composition and Theory, Interlochen Arts Camp
Dr. Peter Terry
Instructor of Computer Music and Composition, Interlochen Arts Camp
Jonathan Newman
Instructor of Music Composition, Interlochen Arts Camp