About

The new Aries Composers Workshop is a high intensity, week-long course in music composition intended for high school and students entering college. The workshop, taught by Dr. James M. David, associate professor of composition and music theory, includes instruction in music composition, music arranging and orchestration, notation, music theory, and aural skills. Participants will gain invaluable experience that goes beyond the resources of a private instructor.

This workshop is an excellent opportunity for high school students in the Rocky Mountain region to study composition intensely and work with an experienced professional ensemble. Participants will compose new works for the professional flute, clarinet, and piano trio, Sound de Trois. The week culminates with a reading/recording session of the students’ compositions by the trio.

CSU’s state-of-the-art facility, the University Center for the Arts, includes outstanding performance and instruction spaces as well as dedicated composition workstations with the latest hardware and software. Participation is limited to a maximum of fifteen students.

Application Process

Step 1: Fill out the online application form below

Step 2: Submit your $40 deposit via the secure link hosted by CSU Conference Services

Step 2: Submit the scores and recordings (MIDI is acceptable) for one or two previously written compositions using one of three possible methods:

• Submit PDF and mp3 files using the form below
• Email PDF files, mp3 files, streaming links (YouTube, etc.,), Finale files (.mus or .musx), or Sibelius Files (.sib) of your score(s) to [email protected]
• Mail a hard copy of your score and a CD recording to: 

2015 Aries Composers Workshop
c/o James David
CSU School of Music, Theatre, and Dance
1778 Campus Delivery
Fort Collins, CO 80523


Compositions submitted without a computer generated or handwritten score are NOT acceptable.


Questions: email [email protected]