Colleges for composition?

I'm a junior in high school and I'd like to audition for music schools in the fall, specifically for composition. Although the applications aren't due until late fall, I've decided to get an early start (or late start?!) on my search.

Here are my two questions!

#1. Where should I apply? What are some of the best schools for composition?

#2. What happens at the interview? How should I prepare?

Thanks for all the guidance and suggestions you can offer! :)

IM me at schwanendreher89 on AIM and I'll talk about this with you.

I'm assuming that you are located in the US of A?

I'm from Canada.

From what I have gone through,

1. Theory Exam and/or short ear-training

2. Instrument audition and ear-training

3. Portfolio (your music)

I tried for 2 schools, one school required an interview.

The dean(?) or the coordinator asked, why are you here? what do you want to do? what is your ultimate goal? what is your music like?

The other school didn't even ask anything, I didn't even get to meet the composition department. However, I had written all the same answers on my application.

Are you classically trained? In terms of the studies and composition?

Anyway, I hope your auditions go well. Once you are in, it's quite a journey...!:whistling::toothygrin:

All the best!

I don't know if you can really say there is a best school for composition. I selected a school based off of everything but it's composition reputation. If you don't like the school you won't enjoy your time there no matter what it's reputation is. It's been a while since I had my interview but they basicly ask the simple questions like what your career goals are. You definately will need a portfolio and depending on the school you will need to audition on your instrument.