Electronic Music Production Job Description
The job description for an electronic music producer is dynamic--it changes depending on the musical situation. Electronic producers sculpt and shape their own music using samples, loops and live instruments, or they provide these services to other artists. But electronic producers often perform a number of different tasks as well. Some act as psychological coaches for musicians in the recording studio, some are DJs and taste-makers who spin other people's music, some remix songs by other artists and many own and operate independent record labels.
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History
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Electronic music production began taking shape in the early 1950s at West German Radio Studio located in Cologne, Germany. Young engineers and composers like Karl Stockhausen, Herbert Eimert and Conny Plank experimented with the composition of synthetic sound. Electronic music first gained international attention through Kraftwerk in 1970, a German group that combined popular song structures and sensibilities with music created entirely on synthesizers. Production of electronic music continued to increase throughout the '80s, '90s and into the '00s, reaching a mainstream audience through hit songs by the Eurythmics, Prodigy, U2, Madonna and many others.
Features
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Electronic music producers are expected to have a deep understanding of the technology used to create electronic music; they've mastered how to operate synthesizers, sequencers, drum machines, samplers and computer-based recording programs. Electronic producers also understand basic musical concepts like song structure, harmony and melody. The best producers develop their own unique production style through years of on-the-job experience, working in recording studios or in live performance situations, typically under the tutelage of a more experienced producer.
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Function
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The function of an electronic music producer depends on the musical situation. Some producers, like Conny Plank and Brian Eno, help artists capture a particular "vibe" or "state of mind" by using a specific palette of artificial sounds. This typically involves constant sonic experimentation in a recording studio environment. Other producers, like Flying Lotus, compose their own material in home studios using samples and original music. Many electronic producers are commissioned by record labels to remix an artist's already recorded material. Outside of the music industry, producers are also employed to compose music for video games and commercials.
Hours and Wages
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According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the median hourly wage for musicians, singers, and related workers (including producers) was roughly $21 in 2008. Music producers are often self-employed and work on a per-contract basis; many must supplement their income by performing part-time work in unrelated industries. Most of a producer's work takes place at night or on weekends.
Considerations
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The more versatile a producer, the more frequently he will be hired. For example, a producer who plays multiple instruments, composes original material and consistently brings out the best performance in other artists will find more employment than one who only composes original material. Competition is fierce in the music industry; to succeed as an electronic music producer, you need not only raw talent, but technical knowledge and communication skills.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit music control 2 image by Pavel Losevsky from Fotolia.com
