Music in Composition

The Bachelor's Degree Programme in Composition at the Norwegian Academy of Music offers aspiring composers an intensive and comprehensive education in the art of creating music. The program is designed to develop students' individual creative voices through a combination of theoretical studies, practical composition exercises, and extensive performance opportunities. Students engage with a broad spectrum of musical genres, techniques, and styles, fostering versatility and innovative thinking in their compositional approaches. The curriculum emphasizes both the development of technical skills and the exploration of contemporary musical trends, preparing graduates for a wide range of professional careers within the music industry, including composition for orchestra, chamber ensembles, film, theater, and electronic media. Throughout the program, students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including recording studios, computer music labs, and concert venues, providing a dynamic environment for experimentation and realization of their artistic visions. The program also encourages collaboration with performers, conductors, and other artists, enabling students to see their works brought to life in live performances. Faculty members are experienced and active professionals in the field of composition and contemporary music, offering mentorship and guidance tailored to each student's individual talents and ambitions. The Norwegian Academy of Music's vibrant artistic community provides an inspiring setting where students can immerse themselves in innovative musical practices, attend concerts, participate in workshops, and present their own compositions. Graduates of the program will possess a strong foundation in music composition, an innovative mindset, and the confidence to contribute original works to the musical world, whether in professional ensembles, media, or collaborative projects. Through rigorous training and creative exploration, students are equipped to push the boundaries of contemporary music and develop their own distinctive artistic voice.

The Master’s programme in Composition at the Norwegian Academy of Music is designed to cultivate innovative and skilled composers capable of shaping the future of contemporary music. The programme offers students a comprehensive educational environment where they can develop their individual voice, explore a wide range of musical styles, and acquire advanced compositional techniques. Throughout the programme, students engage in rigorous coursework, private mentorship, and collaborative projects that challenge them to push the boundaries of their creativity and technical proficiency. The curriculum covers a broad spectrum of musical genres and forms, including experimental music, electronic music, orchestral and chamber compositions, and interdisciplinary works. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities such as recording studios, electronic music labs, and performance spaces, enabling them to experiment with various sounds and technologies. The programme emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, preparing graduates for diverse careers in composition, music production, and arts administration. Opportunities for public performances, festivals, and collaborations with other arts organizations are integral parts of the training, providing students with valuable experience in real-world contexts. Faculty members are internationally recognized composers and researchers who provide personalized guidance, foster artistic development, and encourage innovative approaches to music creation. Graduates of the programme are equipped to contribute significantly to the field of contemporary music, whether through composing, teaching, or engaging in research. The Norwegian Academy of Music’s vibrant artistic community, combined with its strong connections to the wider Nordic and international music scenes, offers students a stimulating environment for growth and exploration. Overall, the Master’s programme in Composition aims to develop highly competent, original, and reflective composers who are ready to make meaningful contributions to the cultural landscape of today and the future.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The financing of the Master’s degree programme in Music with specialization in Composition at the Norwegian Academy of Music is primarily supported through a combination of governmental funding, student tuition fees, and additional financial aid options. As a publicly funded institution, the Norwegian Academy of Music benefits from support provided by the Norwegian Ministry of Education and Research, which allocates resources to ensure accessible higher education and cultural development. This substantial governmental support helps to keep tuition fees relatively low for students, making the programme accessible to both domestic and international applicants.

International students typically pay tuition fees, which are regulated by Norwegian law and can vary depending on the year of admission and residency status. However, the cost is generally offset by numerous scholarship opportunities provided by the university itself, national scholarship programs, and private foundations dedicated to supporting talented students in the arts. The Norwegian government’s scholarship programs for international students, such as the Norwegian State Educational Loan Fund and other external grants, can provide financial assistance to help cover tuition and living expenses.

Students enrolled in the programme are also encouraged to seek additional funding through arts grants, project funding, and composer residencies which are available from various cultural institutions and foundations in Norway and internationally. Many students supplement their studies through part-time work, often within music and cultural sectors, adhering to regulations for international students regarding work hours. The university provides guidance and resources to help students identify and apply for funding opportunities, including scholarships, grants, and fellowships specific to arts and music students.

Overall, the financial structure of the programme aims to make advanced music education accessible while promoting the development of independent, innovative composers. The combination of public funding, scholarship support, and external financial aid options provides a sustainable and supportive financial environment for students pursuing their master’s studies in composition at the Norwegian Academy of Music.

The Bachelor's degree in Music with specialization in Composition at the Norwegian Academy of Music offers students an in-depth education in music composition, focusing on developing their skills in creating original works across various genres and styles. The program aims to cultivate students’ artistic expression, technical proficiency, and understanding of contemporary musical practices. Throughout the course of study, students engage in individual and group lessons, workshops, and seminars that foster creative thinking and critical analysis. The curriculum includes courses in music theory, harmony, counterpoint, orchestration, and digital music production, providing a comprehensive foundation for composing for different ensembles and media. Students also have opportunities to collaborate with performers, sound engineers, and other artists, gaining practical experience in presenting and executing their works. The program emphasizes innovation, encouraging students to explore new concepts and technologies in music composition, including electronic and computer-based music. Performance opportunities and contributions to the academic and artistic community are integral to the program, giving students platforms to showcase their works and receive feedback. The faculty comprises experienced composers, performers, and researchers dedicated to mentoring students and fostering a vibrant creative environment. Graduates of the program are prepared for careers in various fields such as film scoring, media music, concert composition, and contemporary art music. The university offers state-of-the-art facilities, including sound studios, computer labs, and performance spaces, supporting students' creative development. Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to participate in national and international festivals, competitions, and collaborative projects, expanding their professional network. The program ultimately aims to produce innovative composers who can contribute significantly to the musical landscape, both within Norway and globally.