Expert: Kitty Kavey - 10/24/2008

Question
Hello, my name is Alex and I am a music composition student and also piano performance. My dream is to write film music and also perform my own music and the classical repertoire. I can write film music but I do not know where to go and apply or audition in order to demonstrate a movie director that I am able to write the music of a film. So in a few words how do I meet or contact a music director? What is the best thing to do in order to get into the film music business?

Answer
As you study music composition, it may be good to ask your teacher as well for their suggestions.

There are quite a number of ways to get into the film scoring end of the business.  The lower end of the industry (independent, non-studio films, student productions, shorts, etc.) is usually just a matter of making a demo tape and posting your information on one of the industry websites (such as mandy.com) or even craigslist.

There are also websites specifically for film scorers (such as www.filmscoremonthly.com or www.filmscoring.org) and organizations/groups for film music such as www.filmmusicsociety.org, which lists not just composers and songwriters, but studios, soundtrack labels, publications, unions, etc.

You can also intern with legends such as Hans Zimmer, which is a great way to learn, make contacts and have a good credit for your resume.

Good luck to you,
~Kitty