Course Overview

The Doctor of Philosophy in Music and Multimedia Composition at Brown University is an advanced research program designed for individuals seeking to push the boundaries of music composition through integration with multimedia technologies. Offered through a collaboration between the Department of Music and the Brown/RISD Dual Degree Program, this doctoral program emphasizes innovative creative practice, interdisciplinary research, and critical engagement with contemporary music and media technologies. Students are encouraged to explore areas such as computer music, sound design, and interactive media, often culminating in a dissertation that combines original compositions with scholarly analysis.

Unique Features

A distinguishing aspect of this program is its connection to the MEME (Multimedia and Electronic Music Experiments) initiative, which fosters experimentation in electronic music and multimedia art. Students benefit from a highly individualized curriculum, working closely with faculty mentors to develop unique artistic and research projects. The program also offers opportunities for collaboration with other departments and institutions, enhancing the interdisciplinary nature of the work.

Career Prospects

Graduates of this program are well-prepared for careers in academia, creative industries, and technology-driven music production. They often pursue roles that combine artistic innovation with technical expertise, contributing to fields such as film scoring, game audio design, and experimental music composition. The program’s focus on research also equips graduates for teaching and scholarly positions in higher education.

Key Faculty and Staff

• Professor Butch Rovan - A prominent figure in computer music and multimedia composition, known for innovative work in interactive performance systems.
• Professor Todd Winkler - Specializes in computer music and interactive media, with extensive contributions to multimedia art and composition.

Unique Facilities and Partnerships

Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities at the Granoff Center for the Creative Arts, which houses advanced studios for music and multimedia production. The center includes specialized spaces for electronic music experimentation and performance. Additionally, the collaboration with the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) provides unique opportunities for cross-disciplinary projects, allowing students to engage with visual artists and designers.