Music Theory and Composition

Degrees Offered:

We offer a Composition Emphasis within both the Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts degree programs. Undergraduate music minors may select a minor Theory/Composition Emphasis.

Course Offerings:

Our theory and composition programs provide a comprehensive curriculum designed to meet the needs of today's musicians. Courses include analysis and aural skills (4 semesters), private study in composition (graduate and undergraduate), counterpoint, form and analysis, 20th century compositional practices and literature, contemporary analytical techniques, and introduction to composition. Independent studies in specialized areas of theory, music technology and/or composition can also be arranged.

Theory/Composition Faculty:

Our theory and composition courses are taught by nationally-recognized educators, scholars, and composers. Our instructors provide supportive learning environments and are genuinely interested in student progress.
 

Warren P. Gooch Professor of Music, Theory and Composition
  wgooch@truman.edu
Charles Gran Assistant Professor of Music, Theory and Composition
  cgran@truman.edu
Brian Kubin Assistant Professor of Music, Cello and Bass
  bkubin@truman.edu
Sam McClure Professor of Music, Violin and Viola / Director of Orchestral Activities
  smcclure@truman.edu
David McKamie Professor of Music, Piano
  dmckamie@truman.edu
Julianna Moore Professor of Music, Flute
  jmoore@truman.edu
Randall A. Smith Professor of Music, Saxophone
  rsmith@truman.edu

A Community of Scholars:

Our Music Department provides a stimulating learning environment that encourages intellectual interaction between students and faculty. Our composition master classes provide and opportunity for student composers to gather and discuss their craft while learning from one another's work in a friendly, informal setting. Student compositions are performed by our faculty and students, and by our ensembles--including the symphony orchestra, university choruses, university bands, and brass choir. We co-sponsor an annual international composition competition and host a New Music Festival.  Recent guest composers have included Cary Boyce and Bruno Louchouarn.

Music Technology Labs:

Our spacious Music Computing Lab provides up-to-date equipment. Each work station has a computer, synthesizer keyboard, and has printing and recording capabilities. Our Electronic Music Studio contains additional sound processing equipment and is available for advanced technological applications.

Student Support:

We want our students to succeed. In addition to caring, accessible instructors, we have a comprehensive system of peer tutors who provide assistance to all students enrolled in analysis and aural skills classes.

Supporting Courses Work:

We offer supporting courses in instrumental and vocal arranging, orchestration, and conducting that complement our theory/composition curriculum. These courses help ensure that our students are well-rounded and well prepared for music careers.

Student Successes:

Our student composers have received a number of national and regional composition awards, and their music has been performed at significant music events across the country. Several of our alumni have received prestigious commissions by organizations such as the Des Moines Symphony and the St. Louis Symphony Chorus, and others have administrative roles in the National Association of Composers USA, the Mid-America New Music Center and the Iowa Composers Forum. Many of our students pursue advanced graduate study in composition. Our students present scholarly papers at regional and national conferences.

Graduate Studies

Graduate Degrees Offered:
Truman State offers a Master of Arts degree in music with either a composition or a theory emphasis. The theory emphasis culminates in a written thesis. The composition emphasis culminates in a thesis composition accompanied by an analytical description.

Course Offerings:
Our graduate theory/composition program provides comprehensive and challenging course work within a positive, supportive environment. The curriculum is flexible, allowing us to meet the individual needs of each graduate student.

For Further Information, Contact:
Dr. Warren Gooch, Theory / Composition Area Coordinator
Division of Fine Arts, Truman State University
Kirksville, MO 63501
Phone: (660) 785-4429 or (888) 869-3197
email: wgooch@truman.edu