Composition for instrumental and vocal composition
Practical and experimental
Degree programme model Degree programmes Artistic core areas
Great careers begin with a decision:
Mastery begins here
The Master's programme in Composition provides students with comprehensive training as composers. The focus is on in-depth composition of new music, based on the traditions of the 20th and 21st centuries. This is complemented by excellent analytical skills and the ability to reflect on all areas of new music from a musicological and aesthetic perspective. The programme combines these skills with practical projects, performances and individual artistic supervision.
- Individual composition lessons and composition seminars
- Project-oriented work with ensembles
- Composition of own works (also possible with electronics)
- Analysis of exemplary contemporary works, in-depth repertoire knowledge in the field of new music and intensive study of musical forms, instrumentation, notation, advanced instrumental techniques and music philosophy.
- Reflection on artistic positions and aesthetic concepts
- Collaboration with university ensembles (Open Score Ensemble, university orchestra) and performance projects within the university and outside, e.g. as part of the Donaueschingen Music Days programme
- Workshops and masterclasses with external guests (e.g. Ensemble Recherche)
- Optional specialisation in electronic music in conjunction with the State Centre for MUSIC–DESIGN–PERFORMANCE
The programme teaches students to develop independent compositional concepts, incorporate media and electronic resources, and make analytical use of approaches from contemporary music.
You will reflect on your own works, formulate your artistic position, develop an individual compositional language, work professionally with ensembles, and realise complex artistic projects.
- Completed artistic bachelor's degree programme or equivalent qualification
- Work samples (scores, recordings)
- Passing the entrance examination
The requirements for the entrance examination can be found in the enrolment regulations
The Master's programme is suitable for students who aspire to a professional career as a composer and
- wish to deepen their knowledge of contemporary music composition,
- want to work in an experimental and artistically grounded manner,
- are looking for practice-oriented projects and regular performances,
- wish to collaborate with professional ensembles,
- are interested in electronic and media extensions of composition.
In the profile area, additional subjects such as ensemble conducting, music design light, creative arts practice or music theory can be selected.
