Composition faculty Michael Rothkopf's teaching philosophy centers on three principles. First, he believes in listening to his students so as to inhabit and understand their ideas, their perspective and their world. Second, he believes that quality ideas will engage learners, when presented in a clear, organized and precise manner. Third, he believes that ideas presented in the abstract must be put into practice in order to be embraced and made real for learners.
...the 'single-movement sonatina' created a sense of time and occasion that effectively drew the listeners into its sonic world.
John W. Lambert, Raleigh Spectator – Encounters with the Music of Our Time
Dr. Rothkopf’s handling of instrumental and electronic materials shows a high degree of virtuosity and his work is significant for two reasons: his music represents an evolution in the aesthetic possibilities of combining instruments and electronics, while at the same time he has developed technical solutions significant for the genre. His music is imaginative and original, and his interactive compositions are situated at the frontier where art and technology meet.
Cort Lippe, Composer, Director - Hiller Computer Music Studios,University at Buffalo-SUNY
Dr. Rothkopf allowed me to use this course (film composition) to develop my skills as a film composer in the way I thought would be most beneficial to the next step in my career, and for that I owe him my sincere thanks. His feedback was always helpful and effective, and he provided valuable insight into key aspects of the professional environment of film composition.
Former student
The composition seminar is helpful because it provides a forum for discussing contemporary music and the directions of modern composers much more directly than any other theory or history classes. Dr. Rothkopf is always prepared with some interesting music to listen to and reflect on in order to help expand our musical ears and ideas in form, harmonic organization, orchestration and phrasing.
Former student
Every aspect, very interested and invested in our success and taking time to listen to our work, process it, give helpful advice and is very good with complimenting and making us feel good about the work we do. He pushes us to do better and to try new things, and is more than happy to help us with any aspect of UNCSA we may need help in.
Former student
Dr. Rothkopf is always very patient with my ideas and helpful in finding good ways of executing them. He is available for extra questions and help.
Former student
Encourages critical thinking skills and evaluation of self and others work in order to better understand what makes successful composition. Encourages planning towards future goals.
Former student
Dr. Rothkopf is an absolute expert in music technology and it was a privilege to be able to study with him.
Former student
Credentials
- Assistant Dean of Music and Graduate Programs at UNC School of the Arts, School of Music, 1991 - 2013
- Former teaching appointments include Columbia University, Yeshiva University and Stern College
- Principal teachers have been Normand Lockwood, Mario Davidovsky, Jack Beeson, Susan Blaustein, George Edwards, Chou Wen-Chung, Jacques-Louis Monod and Harry Safstrom
Career Highlights
- Composed works have been performed throughout the United States by notable musicians and ensembles such as Ulrich Eichenauer, Tara Helen O'Connor, William Anderson, Jean Kopperud, Debra Reuter-Pivetta, Theresa Radomski, Brooks Whitehouse, Lachezar Kostov, Kevin Lawrence, Steven LaCosse, the Cygnus Ensemble and the National Orchestra Association
- Founding member of the Journal for Online Learning and Teaching (JOLT)
- Founding member of the MERLOT (Multimedia Educational Resources for Online Teaching) Music Editorial Board
- President of the Green Mountain Chamber Music Festival, 2005-2008
- Executive Director of the League of Composers/International Society for Contemporary Music U.S. Section, 1989 - 1991
- Music Director of the Ariel Contemporary Chamber Ensemble, 1982 - 1986
Honors, Recognitions & Awards
- Awarded fellowships from Yaddo, Carnegie Hall, the National Orchestra Association and Columbia University
