Overview
Musically advanced high school students will be challenged and inspired during this fullday instrumental composition intensive. This workshop is designed to support the development of each participant’s individual compositional interests and aspirations while preparing them for an academic and professional career as a composer. Students will share creative ideas, refine their skills, and engage in performances and discussions of original works. The program will provide in-depth exploration of music theory concepts, orchestration techniques, and influential historical figures and compositions essential to the growth of an aspiring and diverse composer.
Course Outcomes
- Students will develop a strong musical theory foundation
- Students will develop of strong music historical awareness through score study and listening sessions
- Students will have a proficient understanding of notation and score preparation
- Students will develop a strong understanding of the professional sides of a composer through interview and application preparation
Sample Daily Schedule
| 9 a.m. Composer History and Score Study | 1 p.m. Composition Music Theory |
| 10 a.m. Orchestration | 2 p.m. Composing Time |
| 11 a.m. Notation and Score Preparation | 3 p.m. Music Composition Seminar (Sharing/Guest Composer/etc.) |
| Noon Lunch Break | 4 p.m. Dismissal |
Program Details
Ages: 13–18
Dates: August 3–7, 2026
9 a.m.–4 p.m.
Tuition: $495
Location: George Mason University Fairfax Campus, de Laski Performing Arts Building
Composition Submission
Deadline: July 25.
All registered students must complete the Advanced Composition Workshop Submission Form and upload a sample of an original piece. Pieces do not need to be complete. Links to shared folders, audio, video, and document files will be accepted.
Registration
Program Faculty
Calvin Evans, Jr.
Instructor
Read More
Calvin Duane Evans Jr. is an honors graduate of Hampton University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education and Master’s Degree in Teaching. During his time at Hampton University, Calvin sharpened his compositional skills as a member of The Hampton University Concert Band, Hampton University Saxophone Section, and Hampton Roads Flute Choir. Upon graduation, he established himself as a highly proficient composer for Visual Media, Symphonic Band, Small Ensemble, and Jazz Band.
Calvin holds a Master’s in Fine Arts Degree with a concentration in Film Music Composition from the University of North Carolina School of the Arts in Winston-Salem, NC. There he composed original music for multiple student films, television pitch ideas, and commercials. Outside of his school work, he composed jazz ensemble literature for the Alamance County Jazz Band and film-like scores for Decode Detroit Escape Rooms.
Calvin is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Music Composition program at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. He was awarded the 2021 Presidential Scholarship at George Mason University which will support him for several years in order to investigate the forgotten history of black film composers. During his free time, Calvin enjoys playing soccer and tennis, watching movies with his dog Aria, and spending time with his wife.
Notes
- Please note that group classes are subject to cancellation if minimum enrollment is not reached.
- Be sure to check our policies and procedures regarding registration, withdrawals, refunds, and more for fall or spring group classes.
- All students will receive a Welcome Letter via email at least 1 week before the class starts with all necessary details.
- Online registration closes Wednesday before the first class. For registrations received after this date, a $10 late registration fee may apply.
- For additional information, please contact the Academy at [email protected].