The annual Composition Festival brings acclaimed composers to the campus of Missouri State University to inspire, teach and interact with students from across the music department and the larger campus community. These interactions include concerts and rehearsals of the guest composer’s works by department ensembles, students, faculty, and guest performers; performances of student and faculty compositions; presentations to classes and to the general public; one-on-one lessons with composition majors; and master classes with small groups of students. Events are free and open to the public.

Schedule of events

Sunday, March 2

Concert I – 7:30 p.m. Ellis Recital Hall
Concert to feature finalists of the 72-hour Composition Challenge

Monday, March 3

Concert II – 7:30 p.m. Ellis Recital Hall
Music of Michael Daugherty performance of his “Dead Elvis” for solo bassoon and chamber ensemble.

Tuesday, March 4

Concert III – 7:30 p.m. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts
Music of MSU wind ensemble by guest composer Michael Daugherty directed by Belva Worthen Prather

Wednesday, March 5

Concert IV – 7:30 p.m. Ellis Recital Hall
World premiere performance of “Neutral Tones” for baritone and viola by Michael F. Murray performed by Chris Thompson and Kathy Murray