Music Composition/ Theory, B.M.
Theory is a key component of each student’s musical education at UNI’s renowned School of Music
The integrity of the theory and aural skills program is the product of a unified and comprehensive approach in presenting theoretical concepts and developing aural and analytical skills.
Our program is one of very few in the U.S. that offers separate credit for sight-singing, theory and aural training. UNI is also unique among institutions of comparable size and scope in that all levels of theory, aural training and sight-singing components are taught by faculty, not graduate assistants.
In composition, faculty artists encourage students to explore a variety of techniques and styles in their writing; guiding students in a search for their own voice. Additionally, students are introduced to the most recent technological aspects of composition, as well as being given a solid foundation in more traditional forms and techniques.
Our music composition/theory majors go on to successful careers as composers, arrangers, music theory educators, film scorers and more.
Leading Program
The UNI School of Music is regarded as one of the finest music programs in the Midwest and is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music.
Top-Notch Facilities
The School of Music is home to a state-of-the-art recording studio where students can produce recordings on campus.
$400,000
The UNI School of Music awards $400,000 in scholarships to our students each year – helping our students pursue their degrees affordably.
Find out More About Music Composition/ Theory
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Contact us directly at:
UNI School of Music
115 Russell Hall
Cedar Falls, Iowa 50614-0246
Phone: 319-273-2024
Email: music@uni.edu
Opportunities for our students
Student Composers Concert Series
Music Composition/Theory majors are expected to present regular performances of their pieces on the Student Composers Concert series, which requires a minimum of six performances.
Senior Project
In the last semester, the student must have completed a large work for orchestra or wind symphony. The work will be given a reading, and the director will dictate the date of delivery for the score and parts. The student will prepare the score and parts using an industry standard computer notation/printing program such as Finale or Nightingale.
Weekly Forums
Weekly forums are offered where students get to hear their own compositions as well as interact with visiting composers and performers.