A Journey of Artistic Discovery Across Europe
Jacobs Composition Academy
Jacobs Academy at Indiana University Jacobs School of Music
Deadline
Restrictions
Eligibility: Participants, 14-years and older. Parents of those younger than 14-years may contact the program director at iucompac@iu.edu for special consideration.Participation fee
TuitionTrack 1A: $800 + Add-Ons
Track 1B: $550 + Add-Ons
Track 2: $440
$50 non-refundable enrollment deposit due at registration for all levels (credited towards tuition). If you do not wish to pay tuition in full at the time of initial registration, please do not select the tuition option prior to completing registration, however tuition must be paid in full by the payment deadline in order to participate in the program.
Jacobs Composition Academy is a virtual music composition program for aspiring composers of all ages. No audition or prior composition experience is required.
What you’ll experience with JCA:
- Weekly masterclasses led by award-winning composer Benjamin Dean Taylor.
- Private composition lessons tailored to your background and goals.
- A chance to hear your original compositions performed by skilled performers from the Jacobs School of Music — a rare opportunity for any composer.
- Flexible, fully virtual format: participate from anywhere in the world via Zoom.
Program tracks designed for flexibility and individual goals:
- Track 1A — 12 weekly masterclasses + 12 weekly private lessons + reading session and performance by a trio (ideal for beginners or adult learners).
- Track 1B — for those already studying composition: 12 weekly masterclasses + performance opportunity (without private lessons).
- Track 2 — 12 weekly private lessons only, for those exploring composition or building at their own pace.
This program is perfect for students preparing a composition portfolio for college auditions, adult musicians who have always wanted to explore the craft of composing, and everyone in between. JCA has helped high school students earn admission to prestigious composition programs such as the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, Berklee College of Music, Peabody Institute, Jacobs School of Music, and more. It has also supported adult learners in their 40s, 50s, and beyond, jumpstarting their creative journeys and even launching new careers in composition.
Spring 2026 schedule:
- January 12 - Registration closes and Payment due
- January 19 - Classes start
- March 15 - 22 - Spring Break (no classes)
- April 17 - Classes conclude
More information about the tuition, registration, and program activities can be found on the JCA webpage: https://jacobsacademy.indiana.edu/descriptions/composition-academy.html
Deadline
Restrictions
Eligibility: Participants, 14-years and older. Parents of those younger than 14-years may contact the program director at iucompac@iu.edu for special consideration.Participation fee
TuitionTrack 1A: $800 + Add-Ons
Track 1B: $550 + Add-Ons
Track 2: $440
$50 non-refundable enrollment deposit due at registration for all levels (credited towards tuition). If you do not wish to pay tuition in full at the time of initial registration, please do not select the tuition option prior to completing registration, however tuition must be paid in full by the payment deadline in order to participate in the program.