Overview

The theory and composition specialization at SIUE allows students to gain experience in: 

• Creating their own music 
• Understanding and explaining the principles and structures of music 

In addition to the core curriculum, students specializing in theory and composition take advanced courses in analysis, arranging, and modern music, as well as private lessons in composition. Over four years, our students build a portfolio of their music while working directly with faculty and guest artists. They also receive opportunities every semester to hear their music performed. Classes in music theory and composition are taught exclusively by full-time professors, and composition lessons are always one-on-one with a professor.

The focus of this specialization is to prepare students for graduate study or immediate employment, with a nearly 100% placement rate. The rigorous curriculum emphasizes fundamentals of form, harmony, orchestration, notation and musicianship applicable to any style or genre of music, from traditional concert music to film and game music.

Our graduates have gone on to advanced study at many prestigious schools, such as Michigan State University, Florida State University, the University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory, the University of Nebraska - Lincoln, the University of Oklahoma, and the Roosevelt College Film Scoring program. Others have chosen employment as a librarian and arranger with The Muny in St. Louis, as a teacher or staff member with local school music programs, and as a freelance artist. 

In addition to the standard audition process for all music majors, theory and composition students should submit a portfolio of one to three works directly to Dr. Kim Archer. Please contact Dr. Archer or call 618-650-3532 for more information.