Expert: Wanda Reinholdt - 10/24/2008

Question
Hello, my name is Alex and I am an undergraduate student. I am double majoring in piano performance and music composition. I compose music and perform it and also want to write music for films. I have no idea how to get into the film music busniess. How do I get into the film music busniess? I also have a second question. I want to have the opportunity to perform my music in as many places as possible. Can you tell me any if there exist any festivals for composers where they gather and perform ? I want to gain experience. I would be very grateful if you would help me.

Answer
Hi there, Alex.  And thanks for writing.  

I actually do not have much of an idea of how to do this myself.  Film music has not been something I have pursued although I have always been interested in it.  However, I can give you some ideas of who to ask and how to find the information:

*If you contact film agents (for actors and the like)that work in your area, they may know of someone who works in film music.

*If you contact film companies that work in your area, they may know of someone who works in film music.

Put in phone calls to as many of these kinds of organizations that you can find.  Try to talk to someone rather than leave a message.  Ask about names and phone numbers for composers and producers (who would hire composers). But if you cannot get someone at a given location, leave a message just asking someone to give you a call as you have some questions about the industry.

Once you get names and numbers of composers and producers, then call them indicating who you are, what you are studying and your intention to get into the industry.  Ask them if they would be willing to talk with you about how to get into the industry as a composer.  As you learn from these people, continue to build your question list and keep learning.

I have approached my career this way many times and have always come out of the conversations with much insight and encouragement as well as direction that has moved me in the right direction.

The key is to know what you want to ask and to be very appreciative of what you received.  

I even keep in touch with those who have helped me on a regular basis so that they know that I am not taking advantage of their experience or person.  The result is that they are coming to my shows now and are aware of who I am and what I do.  

I know this is not a magical answer.  But my experience tells me that you always appreciate something that you work at developing more than something that is given to you.   

Does this help you?


Wanda