Composition Program

EAMA is unique in its focus on the crucial intersection between the craft of listening, composing, and analysis.

Nico Muhly


Every piece I have written since I studied with Philip Lasser has been deeply influenced by his musical philosophy.”

Eric Whitacre

Composition Faculty

Welcoming Abbie Betinis to the Composition Faculty


Director Philip Lasser

Workshops and Critiques

String Quartet

Read, coached, performed at workshop, and recorded by the EAMA Resident String Quartet made up of students from The Juilliard School.
The quartet will rehearse, coach and perform works by EAMA student composers.

Art Song (Soprano & Piano)

Read, coached, performed at workshop, and recorded by soprano Rebecca Myers and pianist TBA.

Choral Writing (SATB)

Read, coached, performed at workshop and recorded by EAMA Student Choir Members. These works will be rehearsed and conducted by EAMA Student Conductors.

Studio

Students are placed in one studio for the 4-week session. They present works in all stages of formation to a composition faculty member in small group seminars.

Distinct from the notion of private composition lessons, these studio classes – drawing directly from your work – will focus on critical and eternal issues of serious compositional discourse such as texture, elegance, and form as related to content.

Core Courses

Every student, regardless of program, take our revolutionary core classes in Counterpoint, Harmony, Musicianship, and Analysis. Chamber Musicians select either Counterpoint or Harmony. EAMA String Quartet members must select one of these as a group. Our courses give you the tools to hone your unique musical language.