The Business of Film Music

Focusing on the vital business skills needed to build and maintain your career as a film and television composer, this course features comprehensive coverage of current business and financial practices in the industry. You learn about the role of agents, managers and lawyers; making the most advantageous deal; the role performing rights organizations such as ASCAP, BMI and SESAC in the collection of public performance royalties; and the responsibilities and procedures in collecting royalties for your work. You also gain an understanding of the difference in operating your business as a sole proprietor or as a corporation and in the legal issues surrounding composer contracts and liability. Brand-building is an important component of a successful career: you study the philosophy of building your own brand as a film composer or as an assistant for another composer, and you explore the role of social media in the promotion of your brand. Collaboration issues are also discussed and include building your team and managing the work of others, communicating with your directors and producers, and working with contractors. Industry guest speakers share their expertise in these various areas and supplement extensive discussions and exercises.