Gabriel Prokofiev – Composition

Gabriel Prokofiev will conduct a masterclass with the aim of providing an answer to the question: how is classical music composed in the 21st century?

British composer Gabriel Prokofiev will present his unique and alternative approach to music. Composition students will be guided to reevaluate their role as composers and reconsider the potential of contemporary classical music in the context of the 21st century. The important role of electronics in today’s music will be recognized, and the main approaches to electronic composition will be explored: electroacoustic, synthesized, sequenced, remixed, found-sound, and field-recording, with a focus on string and electronic composition (knowledge of electronic composition, while useful, is not a prerequisite for this Lab).

The importance of live performance as a central and invaluable aspect of classical music will also be highlighted. This Lab will examine how it is possible to connect new 21st century forms to the 600-year-old traditions of Western classical music. During the workshop, students will be able to grapple with different approaches to classical composition from the 20th century onward, and they will also have the opportunity to delve into performance practice, exploring new ideas on how to bring new audiences to contemporary music.

Duration: 4 days

The course is open to Italian and foreign composers. String instrumentalists are also invited to participate, to explore together with Gabriel his musical universe.

Age limit: 30 years

Level of training:

• Bachelor or Master Degree
• Students of higher courses and candidates who, regardless of their qualifications, meet exceptional requirements may also be admitted.

Language: English

Application deadline: 23:59 CET on March 10th, 2023. Applications submitted after the deadline will not be accepted.

Application mode: through the “Apply” section of this page. Applications sent by email or transmitted through other channels will not be accepted.

Required documents:

• copy of a valid identity document
• copy of degree, if in possession (or equivalent certificate)
• curriculum vitae
• receipt of payment of administrative fee
• score of the pieces submitted for admission (if any)

Administrative fee:

A fixed administrative fee of €50.00 by bank transfer (net of any currency and commission charges) is required to finalize the application. Full details on how to proceed with payment can be found in the full application regulations (downloadable below).

The fee is non-refundable.

The admission exam consists of a video audition. The candidate must create a link to a YouTube video, to be included in the application form, specifying in the description the program performed. At this link you can find all the directions for making a video that meets all the requirements.

Program

The video consists of the performance of 2/3 compositions (involving the use of at least one string instrument) composed by the candidate, with or without the use of electronics, proving the candidate’s technical and musical qualities.

The selection is at the unquestionable discretion of the Professor and the Academic Direction.

Applicants will receive the results of the selections at the e-mail address provided during applications, one month before the start of the course.

The course is entirely free of charge.

However, it should be noted that students are responsible for their own costs relating to travel, accommodation and board in Cremona, as well as other personal expenses.

The course may be attended by a limited number of auditors, who will be admitted at the sole discretion of the Professor.

For any information regarding enrollment in the Academy’s study programs, please write to accademia@stauffer.org.