A composition is an original piece of music fixed by a composer in some lasting form. It may exist as a written score, a recording, or both. Unlike improvisation, a composition can be repeated and reinterpreted by different performers over time.

Compositions range from brief pedagogical pieces to multi-hour operas and symphonic cycles. The creator makes decisions about melody, harmony, rhythm, form, and instrumentation. Those decisions give the work its identity. Later performers bring their own understanding to the same notes.

In the classical tradition the score is primary. In popular and electronic music the recording often serves as the definitive version. Either way, the composition stands as a complete artistic statement that others can study, perform, or arrange.

• Original piece of music
• Fixed in score or recording
• Can be reinterpreted by performers
• Ranges from simple to large-scale forms