“One of the greatest joys

is hearing your music performed by the people you love.”

Composition

Composition at NEC focuses on practice and performance, providing numerous opportunities for young composers to interact and collaborate with the world’s best young musicians. Master techniques and theory, exchange ideas with faculty and renowned guest artists, and compose more and more.

Composition at NEC

Join us.

Devoted, curious, and motivated to continue studying music?

Learn more about next steps for applicants:

For Applicants: Next Steps

NEC students perform their fellow classmate David Lien's original composition Icthys during Tuesday Night New Music.

Chris McCarthy, piano and Alexander Hersh, cello perform student Jonas Tarm's Postlude.

[Students] are excited and want to collaborate...they have genuine interest in your project.

Kathryn Salfelder'09 Composition

Students Kyle Bejnerowicz, baritone and Yeeray Low, piano perform Low's original composition Two Psalms: The Heavens Declare the Glory of God.

Students Isabella Costanza, violin, Ariel Chapman, viola, Nitzan Gal, cello and Alfonso Peduto, electronics & piano, perform Peduto's original composition Oceano Mare.

Who We Are

Kati Agócs

Meet Our Composition Faculty

Beyond the Studio

What’s in your professional toolkit?

Make new ventures happen, start to finish, with Entrepreneurial Musicianship >

Pitch programming and perform for diverse audiences with Community Performances & Partnerships >

Sharpen your intellectual and communications skills with Liberal Arts >

Plan Your Visit Now!

Come to a concert. Connect with faculty. Take a tour led by a current student. Visit us!

Plan your visit

Get More Information

New England Conservatory is an environment where you can learn, explore, and create. Learn more about studying at NEC!

Tell us about yourself.

Recent News

Wed, April 7

NEC Announces New Director of Cultural Equity and Belonging

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Monique Van Willingh as NEC's Director of Cultural Equity and Belonging. A musician, educator, and advocate for social justice, Monique brings great passion, deep experience, and a collaborative spirit to this position.

Wed, March 24

Benjamin Sosland Named Provost and Dean

As NEC's chief academic and artistic officer he will oversee all aspects of the school’s programs in the College, Preparatory School, and School of Continuing Education.

Mon, March 22

NEC Looks Ahead to Fall 2021

This fall, we return to a primarily in-person experience, revitalizing the vibrancy and vitality of campus life as we reconnect in our physical spaces. Learn more about how we are: approaching campus life, live performances, tuition and fees, welcoming international students, and more.

Thu, March 18

Standing in Support of Our Asian Community: A Message from President Kalyn

A message from President Andrea Kalyn to the NEC community in response to yesterday's attacks in Georgia against members of the Asian community.

Mon, March 15

Sarah Jarosz Wins Best Americana Album at 2021 Grammy Awards

Contemporary Improvisation alumna Sarah Jarosz '13 has won the 2021 Grammy Award for Best Americana Album for her record "World on the Ground."

Browse NEC News

Featured Events

Tue, April 13

Tuesday Night New Music: Final Concert of 2020–2021

View Concert Calendar