UMD Music: Degree Options

Career Outlook
The Bachelor of Music degree with a major in theory-composition prepares the student for careers in a variety of fields: composing, arranging, music copying, music business, and the teaching of music theory. Theory-composition majors learn to "hear with their eyes and see with their ears"; Aural and visual skills are developed simultaneously to prepare students for productive career choices.

Educational Preparation
Building upon a core curriculum in music which includes theory, history and literature, ensemble performance, and applied study, the student majoring in music theory-composition will focus on a unique three-year composition sequence which is team-taught by two faculty members. Specialized study in conducting, analysis, counterpoint, Computer Music techniques, and orchestration develop fundamental skills and augment the core curriculum. Residencies by internationally famous composers such as John Cage, Gian Carlo Menotti, Vincent Persichetti, Lukas Foss, Ned Rorem, and Ellen Zwilich, provide outstanding opportunities for students to further master their craft and refine their creative vision. Our alumni have had great success in graduate-level professional training, and many have attained teaching positions at colleges and universities.

Opportunities for Performance

Instrumental: UMD's instrumental ensembles include the Symphonic Wind Ensemble, the Concert Band, and the Bulldog Pep Bands. There is a full symphony orchestra as well as a chamber orchestra. The jazz bands include Jazz Ensemble I, which has won Midwest competitions, several other jazz ensembles, a guitar ensemble, and a number of jazz combos. The department also offers several chamber music ensembles for both wind and percussion.

Vocal: UMD vocal ensembles include the University Singers, which tours internationally, Chamber Singers, Concert Chorale, Vocal Jazz Ensemble, and Opera Workshop, which presents a full opera production in the spring with orchestra.

Other Performance Opportunities: Auditions are open for both vocal and instrumental performers in UMD Theatre's musical productions. Selected UMD music majors also perform in the Duluth-Superior Symphony Orchestra, Symphony Chorus, the Twin Ports Wind Ensemble, or the Big Time Jazz Orchestra. Vocal students often participate in the church choirs of the community.