HomeInstructionProgramsComposition
Bring your compositions to life while collaborating with fellow students and faculty to perform your pieces and those of your peers.
Tap into your musical creativity. Learn to write your own music and study the works of past and present composers.

Composition

Levine offers music composition through private lessons and group study. Composition promotes individual creativity within the context of a musical community. Each year, the Composition Department hosts events where faculty-artists and students perform and share their musical creations.

For more information, contact the Composition Department Chair, Sis McKay at (202) 686-8000 x1109 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Private Lessons

  • Private lessons provide students with individual instruction with one of Levine’s talented faculty members and are geared towards the specific goals, needs and aspirations of each student regardless of experience or age. For new students, we take the time and ...

  • Levine offers private instruction year round in 22 instruments and voice – for the beginner, lifelong amateur, or budding virtuoso. Private lessons provide students with individual instruction with one of Levine’s talented faculty members and are geared towards the specific ...

Group Classes

  • (Ages 9 - 13)

    This new summer course is the perfect way for students to get started in writing their own music.  In addition to simple composition assignments, students also analyze pieces and learn how to use them as models for ...

  • (Ages 10 - 18)

    Bridging the connection between performers and composers, this class gives students the opportunity to listen to and analyze works by living composers. Students are invited to compose new works using a variety of simple concepts and structures, ...

  • (Ages 12 to Adult)

    Using elements of melody, harmony, rhythm, structure and expression, students of all instruments develop the ability to improvise in many styles, including jazz.  Students also learn how to listen to and interact with each other while improvising ...

 

Composition Faculty

 

Composition Related News

  • New Class: GarageBand

    New! Music Technology and Composition class in Garageband. For the first time Levine is proud to present this course on Apple's GarageBand software.

    Whether you’re a student or accomplished musician, GarageBand is a rewarding way to create, perform, and record your own music.  Learn the interface and basic recording techniques, ...