Bachelor of Music Degree in Composition

The Composition degree was added originally around 1966 as a BM in "Music Theory and Composition." After 1984, the Theory part was dropped from the degree and it was listed only as "Composition." In Biola's early years, music composition was an important part of the music major, as it aided students specifically in writing gospel hymns and in becoming more proficient in music so as to become better song leaders. The Music Department has changed and grown considerably since then and now trains composers for the secular industry, where they are encouraged to impact their industry and their listeners for Christ through their creative abilities.

This degree is meant to give students hands-on experience in composing concert and film music. Each year students learn to write in a wide variety of styles and enjoy live performances of their pieces. They study privately with composers who are active in the Los Angeles area. A typical composition student is required to compose 9 concert works; these include pieces for string quartet, full orchestra, choir, piano, and other ensembles. They also have the option to collaborate with film students by scoring music for their movie projects.

The Conservatory has its own state-of-the-art Composers Studio with programs like Logic, Digital Performer, Vienna Strings, Finale, and Sibelius. In addition to working in the studio, students attend the Composition Seminar where they gain skills in music business, score study, listening, presenting their work, and exploring what it means to be a composer committed to Christ. Three annual concerts and three competitions feature the works of Conservatory composition students.
The Composition program at the Biola Conservatory of Music is considered one of the strongest in the nation.