How to get work as a media composer

This event is being offered by The Musicians’ Union.

An event for new and aspiring media composers – gain insight from a team of expert panellists on how you can start to find and secure media commissions, and what skills are needed to do so.

The MU and the Ivors Academy are hosting this joint online-event as part of the Composers Against Buyouts campaign.

The session will explore the ways in which a composer can start to find and secure media commissions, and what skills are needed to do so. The experienced panellists will give insight into the pitching and commissioning processes, general contractual terms, and the role of composers in delivering their work.

Whilst the media sector is a competitive and desirable field to work in, the level and breadth of work available ensures that it’s accessible to more than just the big names working on high-profile TV and film productions – the panel will explore the kind of opportunities available for all composers.

Other topics for discussion will include developing a career as a media composer, understanding fees, royalties & rights, and negotiation. There will also be a Q&A to allow attendees the opportunity to ask individual questions.

The panellists

The panellists will be:

• Mark Gordon (Composer & Score Draw Music)
• Bankey Ojo (Composer)
• Jenna Fentiman (Head of Creative, Manners McDade)
• Kirsteen McLean (Head of Music, Banijay UK)
• Zoe Bryant (Music Supervisor, Carbon Logic)

Who will find the event useful?

This event will be useful for composers looking to work in the media sector, and also those who have some experience of composing for screen, but who wish to learn more about finding opportunities and securing work. Composition students and graduates are also encouraged to attend.