Unleash Your Creative Voice
The Composition Program at Hoff-Barthelson Music School empowers students of all ages and experience levels to explore and develop their creative musical voices. Whether you are just beginning to compose or are already crafting original works, our program provides the instruction, tools, and inspiration to help you grow as a composer.
Students may enroll in group classes, private composition lessons, or both, depending on their experience, interests, and goals. Group classes provide a dynamic environment for sharing ideas, studying a wide range of musical styles, and building a strong foundation in theory and compositional techniques. Private lessons offer individualized guidance and mentorship, allowing students to work closely with a faculty composer on projects tailored to their artistic vision.
Under the direction of composer and educator Dr. Derek Cooper, the program supports students in writing for a variety of instruments and ensembles, using both traditional and contemporary techniques. Students learn to express themselves in their own musical language while acquiring practical skills in harmony, counterpoint, orchestration, and digital music tools.
Opportunities for Performance and Collaboration
Composers at HBMS don’t just write music—they hear it performed. Students have regular opportunities to showcase their work in recitals, studio classes, and public concerts, including the annual Young Composers’ Recital and the Music of Our Time Contemporary Music Festival. These performances give students valuable experience working with live performers and receiving constructive feedback.
Advanced students may participate in master classes with visiting artists and collaborate with performers across the School’s programs, including chamber music, jazz, and digital music.
Who Can Join?
The Composition Program is open to all HBMS students enrolled in private lessons, as well as community members interested in developing their skills as composers. No previous composition experience is required—only curiosity, creativity, and a love of music.
What You’ll Learn:
- Fundamentals of music theory, structure, and notation
- Techniques for writing for soloists, ensembles, and voices
- How to use music technology and notation software
- How to listen critically and analyze diverse musical styles
- Strategies for developing your own compositional voice
Whether through group classes, private instruction, or performance opportunities, HBMS’s Composition Program nurtures each student’s unique creativity in a supportive and stimulating environment.
