Music Theory & Composition
For students interested in writing their own music, analyzing the music of others, or teaching music theory, the University of Tennessee School of Music offers both graduate and undergraduate programs in music theory, composition, and theory pedagogy.
The Bachelor of Music degree with a concentration in Theory and Composition is a combined program, providing students with experience in both the writing and analysis of music. Students take specialized courses in sound synthesis, sound recording techniques, computer music transcription, counterpoint, and orchestration. Students have weekly composition lessons with an active composer. In the senior year, students will also serve a practicum in music theory.
At the graduate level, separate Master’s degree programs are offered in composition and music theory. Also available, beginning Fall 2009, is the Certificate Program in Music Theory Pedagogy.
The Master of Music degree in Composition includes courses in analytical techniques, music theory pedagogy, and musicology as well as private composition lessons with the goal of writing a major work for the thesis. Master of Music students in Theory take courses in analysis, theory, technology as well as musicology, musical styles and bibliography. Theory graduate students write a thesis on an analytical or pedagogical topic.
The Certificate Program in Music Theory Pedagogy is available to graduate students already in a Masters of Music program at the University of Tennessee. The program consists of 15 hours of coursework in analysis, music technology, music theory pedagogy, as well as a final teaching project. Once finished with the program, students will have the knowledge and practical experience needed to teach high school or undergraduate courses in music theory.
Music Theory & Composition students usually continue their studies through the doctoral level and seek jobs teaching theory or composition at the university level. Some graduates choose to seek careers composing or arranging music for films or TV.
Theory Faculty
- Dr. David Brunell
- Dr. Ken Jacobs
- Dr. Karen Ladd
- Dr. Keith McClelland
- Dr. Brendan McConville
- Dr. Barbara Murphy
- Dr. Don Pederson
Curriculum
Theory/Comp Links
Contact Us
University of Tennessee
School of Music
1741 Volunteer Blvd.
Knoxville, TN 37996-2600
Phone: 865-974-3241
Fax: 865-974-1941
Email: music@utk.edu