Bachelor in Performer-Composer (BFA)

California Institute of the Arts, located near Valencia in Southern California, is a leading institution for creative education founded with a legacy of innovation in the arts. CalArts encourages experimental practice across disciplines including art, film, music, theater, dance, and animation, and offers a compact, studio-focused learning environment where students develop original work under the mentorship of practicing artists and industry professionals.

The institute promotes interdisciplinary collaboration and hands-on learning, supporting individual artistic development with cutting-edge studios, performance spaces, and digital labs. Small class sizes and intensive critique-based courses help students refine their voices and build professional portfolios, while visiting artists, festivals, and partnerships provide exposure to the wider creative industry. Academic advising, portfolio coaching, and career development services support transitions to festivals, galleries, studios, and commercial roles.

International students find a welcoming community and opportunities to participate in collaborative projects, residencies, and public exhibitions that elevate their practice. CalArts fosters a culture of experimentation, critical inquiry, and professional networking, making it a strong choice for creative learners who seek rigorous mentorship, cross-disciplinary exploration, and direct engagement with the contemporary arts scene in the United States.

The Bachelor in Performer-Composer program at California Institute of the Arts is for students who want to earn a Bachelor degree in music performance and composition. This four-year program provides individualized instruction and mentoring to help students develop their musical skills and prepare them for a career in music.

The curriculum includes intensive training in musical techniques and concepts, as well as composition and performance practice. Students learn music notation and theory, and develop their creative skills through composing and performing original work. They also participate in ensemble work and recitals, and are required to pass a Graduation Composition Portfolio Review and a Graduation Jury and Recital.

Graduates of this program can pursue careers as Composer-Performers, Music Directors, Arrangers, Music Educators, or Freelance Musicians. They can work in the music industry, education, or performance arts, and can be employed by orchestras, music schools, recording studios, or entertainment companies.