How to become a film composer

Is becoming a film composer right for me?

The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:

Overview
What do film composers do?

Still unsure if becoming a film composer is the right career path? to find out if this career is right for you. Perhaps you are well-suited to become a film composer or another similar career!

Described by our users as being “shockingly accurate”, you might discover careers you haven’t thought of before.

How to become a Film Composer

Becoming a film composer typically involves a combination of formal education, practical experience, and building a strong professional network. Here are the main steps:

  • Develop Musical Skills: The first step is to build a solid foundation in music. This includes learning music theory, composition, and orchestration. Many aspiring film composers begin by learning to play one or more instruments and studying various music styles. Understanding how to write music for different instruments and ensembles is also important.
  • Formal Education: While not always required, many film composers pursue formal education in music theory and composition or film scoring. This could be through a bachelor’s degree or a specialized film scoring program. These programs teach students about music production, digital tools like DAWs, and how to compose music for visual media. Internships or student film projects offer practical experience and portfolio building.
  • Gain Practical Experience: Composing music for short films, student projects, or independent films is a great way to gain real-world experience. These early projects help aspiring composers build a portfolio and learn how to work with filmmakers. Over time, working on more professional projects, such as commercials, web series, or documentaries, can help expand your network and skills.
  • Build a Portfolio: Having a strong portfolio is crucial for film composers. This collection of work showcases your ability to compose music in different styles and moods. A good portfolio should include a variety of projects, from short films to any collaborations with filmmakers or other media creators. It’s an essential tool for landing new opportunities.
  • Networking and Collaboration: Building relationships within the film industry is key to becoming a successful film composer. Attending film festivals, collaborating with directors, and connecting with other composers can open doors to new projects. As you gain experience and build your reputation, you may be referred for larger, higher-profile projects.

Helpful Resources
Here are some helpful resources for aspiring and professional film composers that can assist in developing skills, networking, and staying updated on industry trends:

  • Berklee Online – Film Scoring Courses: Berklee College of Music offers online courses that teach the essentials of composing for visual media. They also provide certificate programs specifically for film scoring.
  • Film Music Network: This organization provides resources, networking opportunities, and job listings for composers, music supervisors, and other professionals in the film and TV music industry.
  • The Society of Composers and Lyricists (SCL): SCL is a professional organization for composers, lyricists, and songwriters working in film, TV, and video games. They offer seminars, networking events, and mentorship programs.
  • ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers): Joining ASCAP allows composers to register their work, collect royalties, and access networking events, workshops, and other valuable resources.
  • BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.): BMI offers services similar to ASCAP, including royalty collection and opportunities for composers to network and develop their careers through workshops and events.
  • Spitfire Audio: Spitfire Audio creates high-quality virtual instrument libraries widely used by film composers. They offer both free and paid tools to enhance digital composing.
  • Film Scoring Academy of Europe: This academy offers film scoring programs and workshops that focus on practical skills, such as working with orchestras and collaborating with filmmakers.
  • Sound on Sound Magazine: A great resource for staying updated on the latest in music technology, gear, and software, with a focus on professional recording and composing.
  • Indie Film Scoring: This platform connects independent filmmakers with film composers, providing opportunities to gain experience by working on indie films.
  • ThinkSpace Education: A YouTube channel that offers tutorials and insights into the film scoring process.
  • Guy Michelmore: A film composer on YouTube who shares tips and guides on composing for films and media.