Program Overview
In the Music Composition program at Lawrence, students compose original music for chamber ensemble, large ensembles, and electronic media, demonstrating an ongoing and increasing mastery of fundamental concepts, tools, techniques, and procedures needed to develop a composition from concept to finished product. Working closely with composition faculty in one-on-one lessons and small-sized classes, students develop and utilize an increasing knowledge of contemporary music idioms, produce quality performances and secure quality recordings of new compositions on a regular basis, demonstrate ongoing and increasing mastery of contemporary music notation principles, and graduate with a varied portfolio of original music that demonstrates breadth and depth regarding musical instrumentation and style.
Program Highlights
Learn from Active Composers
Work closely with professional composers who provide individualized guidance and attentive mentorship.
Find Your Creative Community
Grow within a supportive program that is large enough to offer collaboration and community, yet small enough for your work to be known.
Hear Your Work Come to Life
Prepare original compositions for public performance with faculty coaching through composition studio recitals offered three times each year.
Spotlight
Types of Degrees
Pursue a Bachelor of Music in Music Composition or earn a Bachelor of Arts in Music with a senior capstone focused on composition.
Advising
At Lawrence, academic advising helps you shape an educational experience that reflects your interests, goals, and aspirations. Your faculty advisor will support you as you plan your path, connect with campus resources and communities, and make informed decisions that prepare you for a meaningful and fulfilling future.
Faculty
You’ll be in good hands with professors who combine world-class artistry with a passion for teaching.
All Faculty
Asha Srinivasan (she/her/hers)
Associate Professor of Music
Indian-American composer Asha Srinivasan draws from her Western musical training and Indian heritage to create her compositional language. Her music is regularly presented at national and international venues and has…
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Patricia A. Darling
Instructor of Music
patricia.a.darling@lawrence.edu
Patty Darling directs the Lawrence University Jazz Ensemble and also teaches classes in jazz composition, arranging, electronic music and functional jazz piano. Patty completed her Bachelor of Music degree in…
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Loren Dempster (He/Him/His)
Instructor of Music
Loren Kiyoshi Dempster uses a combination of cello, computer, electronics, composition, improvisation, notated scores, movement, and world music influences to create, teach and perform music. He has created and performed…
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Theresa Martin
Instructor of Music
Theresa Martin (b.1979) is an internationally renowned contemporary composer of orchestral, band, choral, and chamber music who holds a doctorate in Music Composition from the University of Michigan and whose…
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Matthew L. Turner
Instructor
Matt Turner is widely regarded as one of the world's leading improvising cellists. Equally skilled as a pianist, Turner performs in numerous styles and has shared the stage in the…
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Students spend plenty of time in practice rooms, at the Con lounge, and in ensemble rehearsals, soaking up the life of a musician. Students interested in electronic music will find the Production Studio in Hall Commons, the Hurvis Film Center, and SOL studios to be apt locations for their work.
