The Master of Music in Composition prepares students to build their portfolio in preparation to pursue a Ph.D. Entering master's students typically have an undergraduate degree in Composition and have a varied portfolio of several works for different types of ensembles or media. Opportunities for composition students include: RED NOTE New Music Festival, a week of new music events by visiting composers and ensembles from around the country. Exclusive reading sessions for ISU composition students during RED NOTE from nationally prominent ensembles. Annual large ensemble readings with both the Illinois State University Wind Symphony and the Illinois State University Symphony Orchestra with the opportunity for select pieces to be chosen for performance. Chamber concerts of new student works each semester. Private lessons with faculty and nationally recognized guest composers. Frequent performances by students, faculty, and guest artists. Recent guest performers include the ONIX Ensemble, Left Coast Chamber Ensemble, Transient Canvas, and the NOW Ensemble.