MMus in Composition

Our composition graduates have a reputation for experimentation, innovation, and theoretical rigour. They hold positions at prestigious universities across the globe as doctoral candidates, sessionals, and permanent faculty. The School attracts students from across Canada, the United States and around the world.

As a graduate student composer at UVic, you'll have the opportunity to hear your music performed at:

• composer concerts
• colloquia & workshops
• reading sessions with guest artists
• the annual West Coast Student Composers Symposium
• the annual UVic Orchestra reading session

UVic's influence and reach allows us to regularly attract accomplished guest composers, performers and scholars involved in the creation and research of contemporary music, including jazz and improvisational idioms. We also host national and international concerts and colloquia, including the famous ECM+ "Génération" competition and award series. Our local Aventa ensemble regularly premieres new works by local and visiting composers. 

Our graduates also stay local. Several new music groups have been established in recent years in Victoria by our alumni and they continue an active relationship with our faculty and current students. Organizations such as A Place to Listen and Open Space attract new talent and spotlight the continual practice and performance of experimental music at and around UVic. Our level of community engagement is extraordinarily high, and we are proud of our reputation as a coastal school with something unique to offer composers of all backgrounds. 

Apply to Composition

In addition to the standard application for admission, applicants should submit:

• Scores and recordings (if possible) of three recent works
• A proposal for research and creative activity

PDFs of scores may be uploaded with the application. Recordings can be submitted as downloads either on an online platform such as Soundcloud, Youtube, or Dropbox. A document containing links to your work can be included with your application under the Additional Documents section.