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As a pioneer in the growing discipline of cross-cultural composition, the University of Hawaii at Mānoa's composition program immerses students in both Western classical traditions and diverse global musical influences that are redefining contemporary music.
The curriculum builds robust technical skills while fostering students' individual creative identities. Through mentorship with multiple faculty composers, students gain diverse artistic perspectives and tailored guidance to support their personal growth as emerging composers.
With its innovative intercultural approach and exceptional resources, UH Mānoa delivers an unparalleled educational opportunity in musical composition.
Beyond its breathtaking natural beauty and ideal climate, Hawaii boasts a vibrant multicultural population representing global traditions. Honolulu's significant East Asian communities offer particular opportunities to explore Japanese, Chinese, and Korean cultural heritage.
The composition program leverages both its university setting and local community connections, synergizing with the renowned ethnomusicology department's focus on Asian and Pacific music traditions. Students can join diverse ensembles including Koto, Gamelan, Hawaiian Chorus, and Western classical groups like Orchestra and Chamber Music.
The program also provides unique access to skilled performers of traditional Asian instruments - from guzheng to taiko - offering composition students exceptional collaborative opportunities unmatched at other U.S. institutions.
Honolulu's contemporary music scene centers around the composition program, which actively partners with local and international artists to present concerts. Regular performances of faculty works demonstrate professional composer-performer collaborations for students.