Checklist: Music Composition for the Screen
When applying to Music Composition for the Screen you will need to submit the following:
Please remember: For those who reach the final stage of the admissions process, an interview will be required. The department will contact those selected for the interview directly. During the interview, the student will meet with the program director to critique the submitted work samples. Selected applicants will also be asked to demonstrate proficiency on at least one musical instrument, plus a working familiarity with the piano keyboard.
Students entering the program should have composition experience and training. And academic background in music (theory, performance, composition) is preferred. If necessary, admitted students may be asked to complete pre-requisite coursework either before beginning the program or concurrently during their first semester. Students should also have proficiency on at least one musical instrument plus a working familiarity with the piano keyboard.
If you are an international student you will need to submit all the above materials as well as the additional International Application Materials.
- Online application, with application fee
- Self-Assessment essay: Within your self-assessment essay, describe your qualifications, what you expect to gain from Columbia's Music Composition for the Screen program and your career goals. Specificity is encouraged.
- Two letters of recommendation
- Resume
- An official transcript from any and all colleges or universities attended
- Work sample: Applicants must submit a minimum of three original pieces totaling a minimum of 15 minutes of music composed within the last 3 years. The emphasis should be on dramatic and/or orchestral music (MIDI acceptable). Please include an 8 1/2 by 11 inch hand-written or computer-generated score for each recording.
Work Sample Submission Method
MP3 files and .pdfs of scores can be uploaded to our online portfolio submission portal at colum.slideroom.com. Permitted files types and size limits are:
> MUSIC: .mp3 - 10 MB per file maximum
> SCORES: .pdf - 10 MB per file maximum
Our SlideRoom portal offers additional instruction for submitting work, including a very helpful video tutorial. For technical assistance, visit slideroom.zendesk.com. Please direct any questions about work samples to the Graduate Office at 312-369-7260.
MP3 files and .pdfs of scores can be uploaded to our online portfolio submission portal at colum.slideroom.com. Permitted files types and size limits are:
> MUSIC: .mp3 - 10 MB per file maximum
> SCORES: .pdf - 10 MB per file maximum
Our SlideRoom portal offers additional instruction for submitting work, including a very helpful video tutorial. For technical assistance, visit slideroom.zendesk.com. Please direct any questions about work samples to the Graduate Office at 312-369-7260.
- The Online Application and corresponding materials can be accessed on our Apply page. Click here if you are ready to apply.
Please remember: For those who reach the final stage of the admissions process, an interview will be required. The department will contact those selected for the interview directly. During the interview, the student will meet with the program director to critique the submitted work samples. Selected applicants will also be asked to demonstrate proficiency on at least one musical instrument, plus a working familiarity with the piano keyboard.
Students entering the program should have composition experience and training. And academic background in music (theory, performance, composition) is preferred. If necessary, admitted students may be asked to complete pre-requisite coursework either before beginning the program or concurrently during their first semester. Students should also have proficiency on at least one musical instrument plus a working familiarity with the piano keyboard.
If you are an international student you will need to submit all the above materials as well as the additional International Application Materials.