Special Programs:
Composition Program


COMPOSITION WORKSHOP: DESCRIPTION

The New York Summer Music Festival offers a comprehensive two-week composition workshop for young composers.

The program, (directed by David Ludwig, an award-winning composer from the world-renowned Curtis Institute of Music), focuses on writing concert music and the performance of new works, as well as computer music notation, orchestration, and discussion of contemporary music.

The Composition Workshop also includes advanced music courses, composition classes, and private lessons.

A recorded concert featuring composition students’ works will take place at the conclusion of each two-week session. Select compositions may also be read by the NYSMF Chamber Orchestra..


COMPOSITION WORKSHOP: FEATURES

The composition program includes the following:

  • Opportunities to write and orchestrate for soloists, vocal groups, chamber ensembles, choirs, and orchestras.
  • Readings and performances of students’ concert works by NYSMF faculty and staff.
  • Access to NYSMF’s computer facilities, featuring computer music notation programs, and experience using those programs
  • A daily composition seminar where students and composition faculty discuss new/contemporary music, and important issues facing young composers today.
  • Weekly private lessons with NYSMF composition faculty, and optional private lessons with NYSMF’s performance faculty.
  • Evening events and field trips, including weekly concerts and recitals.

APPLYING TO THE COMPOSITION WORKSHOP

Applicants for the composition program must submit the following:

  • 1 to 3 scores of recently written music that you feel best demonstrate your abilities as a composer.
  • Accompanying recordings of these scores (if available) on tape or CD (MIDI realizations are acceptable).
  • Any supporting materials, such as biographical material, background information, and/or a letter of recommendation from a teacher are recommended.

Please write “COMPOSITION WORKSHOP” on the outside of your submission envelope.

 

Composition Program Director
David Ludwig
with summer composers


David Ludwig, Composer-in-Residence

The music of David Ludwig has been called “entrancing” (The Philadelphia Inquirer), gained recognition for its “expressive directness” (The New York Times), and noted for “a sense of integrity and security of craftsmanship” (The New Jersey Star Ledger).

Click here for David Ludwig's full biography.