Bachelor [Composition] From Victoria University of Wellington

The Composition major in the Bachelor of Music (BMus) provides intensive study in a broad range of creative, academic and technological subjects. The major is offered with specialisations in the following areas: Instrumental/Vocal Composition (music composed for performers through a fully notated score) and Sonic Arts (the creative exploration of sound through the medium of music technology). Students may opt to take just one of these pathways, or combine both specialisations for the broadest possible experience.

Our lecturers maintain high national and international profiles for the quality of their work, and their collective expertise covers all significant aspects of composition and sonic art, including film scoring, orchestral works, live electronics, musical robotics and sound installations. Our students are involved in work as diverse as composing pieces for symphony orchestra, building robotic cellos, creating electronic soundscapes for eight-channel surround-sound loudspeaker systems, and composing soundtracks for films.

We offer opportunities for composers and sonic artists, including weekly composer workshops, a regular read through of student works (including by the NZ String Quartet), annual NZSM Composer Competition, public performances, exhibitions, opportunities to work with the Composer-in-Residence, and two commissions offered to outstanding postgraduate students for public performance.

The Composition major leads on to both creative and academic pathways in postgraduate study. Students in this major will learn the theoretical/technical skills, critical perspectives and time management needed to become a composer, arranger, music editor, sound artist, programmer, radio producer, sound designer or teacher.