Are you thinking about hiring a composer for your audiovisual project (film, advertising, TV shows, video games, etc.)? If so, this can be a highly enjoyable and creative process but often one shrouded in uncertainty and subjectivity.
A well-orchestrated soundtrack can elevate a film. It is crucial for every director or creative team to select the right composer for the project. A skilled composer will work closely with you to create the desired sonic landscape while carefully constructing a compelling dialogue between the visual and musical elements of the film.
It is essential to take the time to do things right and find a composer with whom you feel comfortable and confident. It is not always easy to determine who might be a good or bad fit for your film, which is why I have compiled 5 things to consider before choosing your composer to produce a breathtaking soundtrack.
1 – The composer must meet your needs
This may sound simple and perhaps obvious, but in reality:
- What are your music requirements for your film?
- Do you know how much music you need, the format, the delivery date, etc.?
- Are you looking for original music or a cover/arrangement of an existing piece?
Knowing the answers to these types of questions will help you narrow down your search. If you are looking for someone you can rely on for future projects, it will definitely be worth spending a little more time finding the best person for the job.
2 – The composer must be on the same page
You and your composer must be on the same page, both professionally and artistically. Consider the type of personality you are seeking and the qualities that matter to you and your project. If a composer is unresponsive to your emails or frequently late to meetings, you will end up spending a lot of time tracking them down. Above all, you need a composer who can collaborate effectively and add professional value to your team.
It is equally important to find a composer who understands the artistic value of your film. Many composers function as technicians, capable of recreating a sound similar to your reference but without much interest in the storyline and visuals. Don’t hesitate to have conversations with potential composers to help you assess their familiarity with and interest in the type of film you want to create. Communication is essential in any working relationship, but especially in the composer-filmmaker relationship. If you can’t communicate easily, get on the same page, and discuss your ideas together, it won’t work.
By the way, to facilitate your discussions with your partners and composers, I co-written this handy guide called “Music in Words,” available for free download here.
3 – The composer must match the film’s style/tone/emotion
Consider the type of music you need for your film in terms of atmosphere, tone, emotions, and styles.
Music is one of the most crucial elements in a film. It is often used to enhance key moments and evoke emotions on screen. Ensuring that the composer you choose can handle this well and compose in the musical styles you desire is essential.
Take the time to listen to their work and explore their musical universe. Can they compose in the musical styles you need? Do they have range and versatility? Are the melodies they compose memorable? Does the music suit the films they typically work on? To answer all these questions, they should first present you with a portfolio (which brings us to our next criterion).
4 – The composer must have a portfolio to show
Reviewing composers’ portfolios is the first step in gaining an understanding of who they are, what they have done, and whether they are credible and reliable.
Having a solid track record can be crucial because it often signifies their skills and industry knowledge. The more experience they have, the less hand-holding they will need, and the more you can trust their ability to provide excellent music for your film.
The portfolio does not need to consist solely of past achievements but also music that effectively reflects the composer’s style. It is not impossible to have an artistic revelation!
5 – The composer must fit your budget
If you want to hire a composer, you’ll need to set aside a budget. They will create customized music tailored to your film and help bring your vision to life. This requires time, talent, thought, attention, skills, and equipment. Your composer deserves the opportunity to give you their best, and this will certainly come at a cost. Obviously, the more renowned the composer, the more substantial your budget will need to be.
So, there you have it! Still feeling a bit stuck? Can’t seem to find the composer you need?
At Soundplify, my job is to match the right composer with the right visual to elevate your story. You have a multitude of composers, labels and publishers at your disposal, ready to work with you.