How to find a composer

If you are looking to place original music in your media project you will need to find the right individual to create music which fits both mood and setting. Regardless of your budget, there are artists out there that are willing and able to compose the perfect piece.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• computer

1. Try and find similar visual projects to your own. Investigate what music other film makers have used and try using it with your own piece. This may help extend your ideas past what you had originally conceived. Also try putting your favorite CD's with your project, the point being to explore all options to really focus on what you want.
2. Once you've focused on what you really want, there are various "film music" sites where you can post want ad's along with companies that will help you find individuals that fit your personal expectations such as "The Bank" at www.superviseandscore.com. Be sure that you feel confident in the composer's experience and their commitment to follow through.
3. Depending on your budget you may or not may have the funds to hire a full orchestra if that is the genre you choose. Composers have the full capablities via MIDI, sample banks, and other technology to simulate full orchestras and infact simulate just about any instrument that exists so that should not hinder your decison.
4. Payment for your composer usually is delivered in thirds and sometimes fourths. The first payment is delivered while spotting the film. The first time you watch the project with the composer you will decide exactly where the film needs music and where it does not not. The second payment is delivered upon recording and the third upon completion.
5. Be sure to check in with your composer regularly once they have commenced recording and be sure to communicate with them to make sure they are executing in accordance to your vision. Too often does the film maker not have a clear cut picture of what they want and they constantly change their mind on what direction they want to take causing tension between the two parties. The film maker needs to know what they want to be efficient.
6. Once the recording is completed, additional mixing might be called for and a final mastering stage will most likely be necessary. Make sure all licenses and responsibilities have been fulfilled by both you and the composer because once you lock your score to film it can be a costly endeavor to unlock it.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to check out the composer's prior work via their website or cd.
• Make it clear whether or not the final score is under the ownership of you, the film maker, or under ownership of the composer. If the composer retains the rights he/she can re-use their work for another project.