For Composers (New and Old)

[Cryogenic Filmworks]

Hypothetical on something I heard. If you were just starting out trying to get into scoring, there was an opportunity but the catch is (along with credit only) is that you would essentially be competing with other possible composers and your composition may not actualliy be chosen for the project. What would be your thoughts. I am leaving it an open ended question so as to get as much unfiltered feedback as possible,

 

[Drew Ott]

I would never do anything like this, even with only two people competing.

 

[mainstreetprod]

I'm not a composer but have hired one before. I wouldn't want to spend two months or longer working on something that may or may not generate any income. Doesn't mean no one else would though.

I'm assuming this is a feature, different story for a short.

 

[ddixon]

I used to do a lot of arranging for school bands. Once, a director hired me to write an arrangement, but told me he was going also hire someone else to write a treatment of the same tune. He said after he had both he'd pick which he preferred. I was a little disconcerted, because creative work is a highly personal thing. But, he said as long as I get paid my usual fee, why should I care if it gets actually used or not.

So, I went along with the plan. It ended up that my version *was* the one selected and performed, and this also led to further work from the person.

But, despite the fact that this was just extra income and not my primary occupation, I don't think I would have done it for no pay. In a scoring for video situation, the only scenario I can see as possibly justified would be if it was not an entire job but just a sample of my work to show the person what I could do. And I'd only do it then if there was the strong possibility that he might either use me again or recommend me strongly to others.

 

[Cryogenic Filmworks]

Sorry for dropping out. I don't like it myself but I am not being listened to.