A COLLEGE COMPOSER PANEL DISCUSSION

COMPOSING YOUR FUTURE

Panelists: Carlos Lalonde & Xavier Chapman | January 27, 2023

Outline

Applying to music school/composition programs

• What types of schools/programs to look for

• Application and audition process

• Preparing a convincing music portfolio

Life as a music composition major

·      Course load and general requirements

·       Using school resources and facilities

·       Meet many musicians, future colleagues, foster long-lasting friendships

·       Finding a healthy balance in your schedule

·       Learning how to be a professional musician

·       Preparing for a senior composition recital

Professional and career development in college

• Self-branding and online presence

• Networking in-person and online

• Competitions, residencies, and workshops

• Pursuit of knowledge and continuous learning

Career outcomes

• Freelance composing

• Media composing

• Arranging

• Engraving

• Teaching

Composing and Creativity

• The truth behind inspiration

• Tackling writer’s block

• Building consistency

• Tools and essentials

• Websites and software

• Making money

Resources

Here, you'll find a wealth of information and tools to help you in your craft.

Tools and Software

A list of essential items that any composer should have. The specific brand or model doesn’t matter, but each composer should have an equivalent item for each category.