"HSCI is such a fantastic experience that connects young composers with performers, something that is vital when learning how to write music. I always advocate for composers to get acquainted with instrumentalists, and Boston Conservatory's High School Composition program really achieves this."—Charles (Former HSCI Participant; Finalist Award Winner, National Young Arts Awards)
High School Composition Intensive (HSCI) is a two-week program designed to challenge and engage students who are serious about music composition. Young composers will take part in a rigorous daily practice of composition through faculty-led private and studio composition lessons.
During the program, participants will build a toolbox of techniques that are essential on the path to finding their voice. Students will learn how to write quickly and effectively with limited time to wait for "inspiration to strike." They will discover the rehearsal techniques of professional musicians and ensembles and will have an opportunity to attend lectures by working composers on their music and processes.
Ultimately, each student composer will develop a portfolio of works for collegiate applications and experience their work being performed by professional musical ensembles.
By the end of this two-week intensive, students will have an improved fluency in notating their compositions, and greater confidence in their skill and creativity as composers.
Sign up to receive updates and reminders about the next High School Composition Intensive.
Who Should Apply
High school students, ages 15 to 18, with some foundation in music composition.
Faculty, Guest Instructors, and Visiting Ensembles
High School Composition Intensive is led by Boston Conservatory Associate Professor of Core Studies John Murphree.
Previous guest instructors for the program have included, Victoria Cheah, William Cooper, Jim Dalton, Marti Epstein, Stephen Halloran, Marc Hoffeditz, Eun Young Lee, Cynthia Van Maanen, Marc McAnneny, John Murphree, Mischa Salkind-Pearl, and Kirsten Volness.
Previous guest instructors for the program have included the Semiosis Quartet and Worcester Chamber Music Society.
2019 Tuition, Fees, Housing, and Meals
2020 Tuition, Fees, Housing, and Meals information coming soon
2019 Application Fee:
$90 (non-refundable)
2019 Tuition:
$2,130
2019 Housing and Meals:*
$1,395
Students living on campus enjoy housing in the Conservatory’s historical brownstones and the many offerings of the Berklee cafeteria, just down the street. Learn more about housing.
*Students living on campus are required to have a meal plan. Students may request a waiver of housing and meals with proof of alternate options. All waivers are at the discretion of the Summer Programs Office.
How to Apply
Students interested in applying to this program should prepare the following materials:
Scores of between two and five works (hard copy submissions are also accepted)
Include recordings of your works, if available (MIDI is acceptable if a live recording is not available.) For each recording submitted, you must include an accompanying score. Each recording can be as large as 5GB. Students are advised against mailing original recordings, as all materials submitted become the property of Boston Conservatory at Berklee and cannot be returned.
Registration for this program will open soon. Sign up to receive notification of when registration is available.
