Mock interview2
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A composer needs a bachelor's degree in music composition as well as skills in music software, music business, and recording. While a bachelor's is sufficient to get started, a master's degree provides more advanced skills and helps one stand out. Composers also typically gain experience in the music business through focused education that teaches music theory, composition, and performance skills.
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Mock interview2
- 2. Composers are expected to be familiar with recording, composition software, and of course music business. A bachelor’s degree is not only relevant in this field, but crucial to a composer’s success. Although for you to really advance and set yourself apart, I have to recommend that you attain your Masters in Fine Arts. Composers customarily have dexterity in the business due to industry focused based education. Therefore competence in music theory, composition, and performance is imperative.
- 3. On a typical day in this position, what do you do? My studio is behind my house and I usually work 9-5, Monday through Friday. I’m simply more productive if I have that evening and weekend break. I recommend that you dedicate an entire day to a specific project. It seems to keep me more focused. My normal pace is 2-3 minutes of finished music each day, either ready to be dropped in the game permanently or sent off for parts destined for the recording stage.
- 4. What steps did you take to get this job? The focus here is not just getting hired on a project no matter what. The focus here is on getting hired on a really great project that's right for you. STEP 1: KNOW YOUR FORTE; WHATS YOUR STYLE? STEP 2: FIND A GAME AT THE RIGHT STAGE; COMPOSER NEEDED STEP 3: FIND THE GATEKEEPER; WHO’S IN CHARGE? STEP 4: MAKE CONTACT WITH AUDIO DIRECTORS STEP 5: GET SOME IN- GAME FOOTAGE (1 MIN.)AND OFFER TO SCORE IT STEP 6: PREPARE PRESENTATION; MEET WITH DEVELOPER STEP 7: NEGOTIATE CONTRACT
- 5. What entry level jobs are best for learning as much as possible? The standard path toward becoming a full-fledged composer was to apprentice under a professional to learn the trade techniques; trainee compose cues for their mentor- employer (usually for television shows) which are credited to the more established composer. However, the Society of Composers and Lyricists has instituted an alternative apprentice program to grow the talents and experience of associate members.
- 6. What are the salary ranges for the various levels in this field? 1-5 instruments – $300 per minute 6-10 instrument – $450 per minute 11 instruments upwards – $600 per minute Specify EXACTLY what you are doing for the price. “You will get X amount of free changes, X amount of music, within X amount of time”. Sign a contract with the above agreed details. Ask the client if they have a budget in mind. The number they give might be smaller than their actual budget – that’s where negotiation comes in. Breakdown your estimate to show what expenses you will incur and how many hours it will take to complete. It makes it a little easier for the client to take it in.
- 7. How do current economic conditions affect your business? For the most part my business has remained relatively stable. I believe the recording and broadcast performing arts should continue to proliferate and diversify. Although the Internet's ability to produce sustained profitability remains to be demonstrated, it is already reaching far-flung audiences and creating healthy markets for art forms that had previously been economically insignificant. In the future, niche arts markets may be not only possible, but profitable.
- 8. What are the prerequisites for a job in this field? It is a precondition that you become familiar with the laws concerning copyright, licensing, and the role of music publishers. Above all, a composer has an inherent talent, distinct creative voice, and well-tuned ear for melody.
- 9. From your perspective, what are the challenges working in this field? There are many challenges to writing an original musical composition. The first one is creating a great melody or melodies for each piece. Another challenge is to compose a piece that is beyond your comfort zone. There are so many styles of music by great composers that are inspiring and you have to consider the myriad of ways to make your composition interesting. Final challenge is not to be predictable with the music. You want the audience to be surprised by what key is used or how you end the piece.
- 10. Which professional journals and organizations would help me learn more about this field? Get affiliated with BMI, ASCAP, or SESAC to register your works for 100% of the writer's share (if you're the sole composer). Membership with a performing rights organization like BMI is a must in order to receive performance royalties. When I got started I did my detective work at the following websites: • Go to the GDC Game Developer's Conference • bmi.com -- click on the Join tab which will lead to links to learn more about them. • ascap.com -- click on the About ASCAP tab. • sesac.com -- mouse over the writer/publisher tab informational links. • GameSpy release dates index • Adventure Gamers release calendar • Gamasutra
- 11. With the information you have about my education, skills and experience, what other fields or jobs would you suggest I research further before I make a final decision? Many composers have evolved into the role through work as a copyist, arranger, or orchestrator. Other fields would be a film composer and sound designer. Prior employment in audio programming or as an audio lead is beneficial, as is work as a Foley artist, recording engineer, mix engineer, or production sound mixer.