Composition Program

JUNE 22 - AUGUST 3, 2024 (6-WEEK PROGRAM)
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2024 Applications Closed

Instruments used in this program:

Program Overview: The Festival’s summer music Composition Program gives students access to distinguished composers, concerts, and masterclasses while affording each participant ample time to compose in a relaxed environment. Students work with composers-in-residence Derek Bermel and Andreia Pinto Correia, as well as guest composers in both group and individual settings. 2024 guests include Dai Fujikura, Tania León, and the Talea Ensemble. Pasts guests have included Sebastian Currier, Juri Seo, the JACK Quartet, Aaron Jay Kernis, Augusta Read Thomas, Steven Mackey, Melinda Wagner, Samuel Adler, John Harbison, and Missy Mazzoli. The program culminates in a performance of at least one work by each student. The Festival will assist in assembling colleagues from within the Festival to perform a selected work in a Young Artist Series concert.

Visit ADMISSIONS HOME for information about program fees, student life, and the application process.

The Festival is a summer of immersive music-making in which composition and contemporary music are an integral part of its fabric and history. Each year I look forward to returning to Maine to work with devoted colleagues and young composers whose passion for music and commitment to excellence continues to propel the Festival to greater artistic heights.
—Derek Bermel

 

By The Numbers

8

COMPOSITION STUDENTS

6

WEEK PROGRAM

18+

TYPICAL AGE

70%

RECEIVE SCHOLARSHIP

80

FACULTY & ARTISTS

200

CONCERTS & EVENTS

Audition Requirements

Scores and Recordings: Two original scores in PDF format and recordings of each of the scores. MIDI realizations are acceptable. Files may be uploaded or linked from YouTube or Vimeo.

Composition at the Festival

Discover the opportunities that the Festival offers our composition students.

STUDY

  • Private lessons
  • Studio classes and workshops
  • Composer lectures
  • Seminars with faculty and guest artists

PERFORM

  • Young Artists Series performances
  • Dedicated composer concert
  • Collaborations with student musicians

BENEFITS

  • Flexible schedule
  • Free tickets to faculty concerts
  • HD video recordings of performances
  • Live streaming of performances
  • Photo sessions with photographer

Apply to Bowdoin Festival

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