Theory & Composition
About Us
The Theory/Composition faculty is devoted to teaching students who want to pursue a career in composition or music theory. Our goal is to teach students to write and study music that inspires and interests them.
Composition
Each Theory/Composition major is given individual weekly instruction in composition. Students have many opportunities to have their works performed in the annual Ouachita Composers Symposium and in other recitals and concerts. Also, each student presents a senior composition recital.
| The Student-Faculty Composers Symposium—a Ouachita tradition for over forty years—provides students with opportunities to present their compositions for soloists, small ensembles, band, and choir. |
Music Theory
All music students complete a comprehensive program in theory and aural skills. Advanced courses are available to theory/composition majors, and are offered as electives to students in other majors.
Our students explore creative opportunities in offerings that include MIDI studio techniques, orchestration, counterpoint, and theory pedagogy.
Ouachita's Mabee Fine Arts Center contains two MIDI studios. The fourth-floor studio is reserved for students in Theory/Composition.