Composition

With a stellar faculty and numerous performance opportunities, the composition program at Yale attracts the finest students from around the world.

In addition to studies in composition, the program offers instruction in computer music, recording techniques, and the analysis of tonal and non-tonal music. Composers are also encouraged to continue their work as instrumentalists and conductors. Student works are performed on the New Music New Haven series, comprising six to eight concerts each year, including, for second-year students, a performance of an orchestral composition by the Yale Philharmonia.

A highlight of the composition program is the instruction from distinguished visiting composers. Visiting composers have included Louis Andriessen, Lukas Foss, Tania Léon, Nicholas Maw, Poul Ruders, Frederic Rzewski, and Charles Wuorinen. During their two-year residency, composers are expected to produce enough work for a full-length concert.