- All Areas
- Brass
- Composition
- Conducting
- Jazz Studies
- Keyboard
- Music Education
- Music Theory
- Musicology / Ethnomusicology
- Percussion
- Strings
- Vocal Arts
- Woodwinds
- Chamber Music
- Summer Programs
COMPOSITION
- All Areas
- Brass
- Composition
- Conducting
- Jazz Studies
- Keyboard
- Music Education
- Music Theory
- Musicology / Ethnomusicology
- Percussion
- Strings
- Vocal Arts
- Woodwinds
- Chamber Music
- Summer Programs
WELCOME TO COMPOSITION AT MSU
The composition program at Michigan State University stands at the crossroads of music creation, research, and performance, integrating various art forms. Faculty and students work with both acoustic and electronic media, encompassing chamber and large ensembles, real-time interactive performances, video/film, installations, instrument design, and improvisation.
Composition Faculty
Featured News
Tyler Mazone, a composer who just completed his DMA, shares his insights as he graduates.
The world premiere by the LA Phil of a deeply personal new work by MSU Music’s Ricardo Lorenz draws together Venezuela, Berlin, and a connection to Alexander von Humboldt.
Guest ensemble appears in two concerts and a weeklong residency
Featured in a residency are Michael Daugherty’s vibrant, narrative-driven works and workshops offering students an opportunity to engage with a living composer.
Grammy-winning guest composer in residence collaborates with MSU College of Music
Upcoming Events
Musique 21 presents an evening of contemporary works exploring ethereal sound worlds, shifting sonic colors, and innovative instrumental combinations.
Under the direction of David Thornton, the MSU Symphony Band presents a dynamic program featuring works by Jack Stamp, Kelijah Dunton, Percy Grainger, and Fisher Tull.
Musique 21 presents an evening of contemporary music exploring themes of memory, transformation, landscape, and time.
MSU composers Anthony T. Marasco and David Biedenbender present an evening of improvised music blending acoustic instruments with electronic sound.
The Spartan Youth Wind Symphony and Wind Symphony present music by guest composer Steven Bryant alongside works by David Biedenbender and others.





