How do I become a composer?

For those interested in studying composition full-time, there are two main options:

• Music course with a focus on composition, at one of Sweden's folk high schools.
• Bachelor of Arts program at one of Sweden's music colleges (three-year program).

It is quite common for those admitted to a bachelor's degree at a music college to have studied at a folk high school with a music focus, although this is of course not a requirement. There are also stand-alone courses in composition at some universities. In order to be admitted to a higher composition course, applicants must have submitted approved work samples and have passed the theory and composition exams.

If you want to start preparing to apply to a music school, most schools usually describe the admissions process for their particular school on their website. This process may differ slightly between schools. Here is the page on how to apply to our composition program at the School of Music in Piteå, at Luleå University of Technology: How to apply for composition.

After a bachelor's degree, it is common to also attend a two-year artistic master's program, which means that you end up with a total of five years of university studies. During your Master's studies, you will have the opportunity to explore and refine your own artistic voice, as well as to explore an aspect of composition that you are particularly interested in through your Master's thesis.

What subjects do I study as a composer?

In addition to a number of composition projects (usually for professional musicians), the following subjects are usually included in a composer's training:

• Composition (individual lessons, group lessons, guest lectures, composition projects, etc.).
• General music theory
• Theory of harmony
• Arrangement & Instrumentation
• Counterpoint
• Form & Analysis
• Ear training
• History of music

Other subjects may be added, such as ensemble conducting, player piano, sound engineering/recording techniques and industry knowledge.

What should I know before applying?

The reason we have entrance exams is to see if the applicant has a reasonable chance of completing the course in the time available. The pace of the course can be extremely fast, even for those who are well prepared.