Studying Composition
Our student composers are guaranteed a range of opportunities for performance of their works. Most regular of these is the student composition concerts presented by the Da Capo ensemble, which is in residence; once each semester they give a concert of student works for Pierrot ensemble (flute, clarinet, violin, cello, piano), plus other performers as needed. The graduating composer has the option of having an orchestra piece performed by The Orchestra Now at the Commencement Concert. In addition, the students have many avenues for getting their pieces performed by student ensembles and soloists.
Composition Faculty
The Bard composition faculty is committed to aesthetic diversity. We argue with each other about what kind of music is best, and the fact that we disagree means that the student composers have a range of options. Stylistic dogma has no place here. Our composition professors have international careers and are actively integrated into a worldwide network of colleagues. Through our program, young composers come into contact with the wider world of new music composition. Faculty include:
Thurman Barker
John Esposito
Kyle Gann
Erica Lindsay
Matt Sargent
Joan Tower
George Tsontakis