Workshop allows students to compose music using computers

Oakland University's Department of Music, Theatre and Dance will offer a one-week summer workshop that allows 12- to 18-year-old students to explore the world of music composition using a computer.

Presented by MTD's Music Preparatory Division, the workshop will introduce participants to composing with the computer, editing a composition, sequencing sounds and recording live music. They will create their own musical compositions using a variety of software, including Apple's Garageband. Other tools include free, web-based applications that can be used to complete or enhance compositions at home.

The workshop will be taught by music theorist Jenine Brown, an Eastman School of Music Ph.D. candidate who plays violin and piano and sings.

"We may create pieces that sound more like pop music rather than classical pieces," she explained. "It will be more of an exploratory class into composing with the computer, and students may compose in a variety of musical styles."

Students will learn how to record and edit their own performances, which can be used for auditions or scholarship applications. No prior knowledge of music software programs or music theory concepts is necessary.

The Creative Computer Music Composition workshop will take place from 9 a.m. to noon daily starting on Monday, July 25, and continuing through Friday, July 29. The cost is $200 per person. For more information or to reserve a spot, call (248) 370-2030 or e-mail to stapleto@oakland.edu.

The Music Preparatory Division offers year-round, on-campus musical education to students of all ages. Programs include Early Childhood, Piano Readiness, Elementary Voice, Music Theory and private lessons for a host of instruments including piano, voice, woodwinds, brass, strings, guitar and percussion. To learn more, visit oakland.edu/musicprep.