California Institute of the Arts

What you'll study

The curriculum emphasises hands-on studio practice, ensemble performance and individual artistic development. Core areas typically include applied lessons or voice study, ensemble participation, music theory and aural skills, and private composition or arranging study. Students engage deeply with contemporary approaches to composition and improvisation, electronic and computer music, recording and production techniques, and sound design.

Alongside craft and technique, students undertake project-based courses that support collaborative work for theatre, film and media, as well as interdisciplinary labs that bring together students from CalArts’ other schools. Coursework often includes:

• Applied practice (private instrumental or vocal instruction)
• Large and small ensembles, chamber music and improvisation groups
• Composition and arranging workshops
• Music theory, ear training and analysis
• Music technology: electronic music, digital audio workstations, synthesis and live processing
• Recording, mixing and studio production
• Sound design for theatre, film and interactive media
• Collaborative projects and interdisciplinary electives (film scoring, performance art, choreography partnerships)
• Capstone recital, portfolio or final project demonstrating artistic development

Entry requirements

Admission to the undergraduate music programme is portfolio- and audition-based. Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised secondary school qualification or equivalent and to provide academic transcripts. The application typically requires a personal statement outlining artistic goals, a résumé of musical experience, and letters of recommendation.

Auditions or recorded performance submissions are central to assessment and should demonstrate technical command, musical sensitivity and creative intent. Composition applicants submit scores and recordings of original work and may be asked to provide a written portfolio or test. International applicants must meet the institute’s English-language requirements.

CalArts seeks candidates who show artistic potential, independence, and an interest in experimental and collaborative practice; prior conservatoire or intensive musical training is helpful but not strictly required if the auditionary materials demonstrate comparable promise.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for a range of careers in music and related creative industries. Common pathways include:

• Performer in contemporary, experimental, jazz, classical or popular contexts
• Composer for concert, film, television, theatre and interactive media (games, installations)
• Music technologist, audio engineer or producer working in studios, live sound or post-production
• Sound designer for theatre, multimedia and immersive experiences
• Music educator, workshop leader and community arts practitioner
• Interdisciplinary artist working across film, dance, visual art and performance

Because of the programme’s interdisciplinary emphasis and proximity to creative industries in Los Angeles, many graduates also pursue freelance project work, entrepreneurial ventures, or further study in specialised graduate programmes.

Why study at California Institute of the Arts

CalArts is widely recognised for its experimental, artist-driven approach and a curriculum that encourages risk-taking and cross-disciplinary collaboration. The School of Music is staffed by practising composers, performers and technologists who mentor students in studio practice and real-world project development.

Facilities support contemporary music-making and sound work, including electronic studios, recording suites and performance spaces. Students benefit from regular performance opportunities, partnerships with theatre and film programmes, and an environment where music interacts directly with animation, choreography, film and visual art.

Studying at CalArts suits students who want a highly individualised education that prioritises creative exploration, close faculty mentorship and collaboration across artistic disciplines rather than a strictly traditional conservatoire model.