Navigating Career Opportunities in Young Musicianship Writing

For young musicians and aspiring composers, the path to turning their talents into a professional career can seem as uncertain as it is exciting. This article explores various avenues for finding work in music composition and writing, emphasizing the importance of versatility and industry knowledge.

Understanding the Music Industry Landscape

The world of music composition is diverse and competitive. Musicians with a range of skills, from sight-reading and keyboard proficiency to electronic sound manipulation, have a variety of opportunities available. If you can sight-read and play keyboards with both hands, you might find work transposing music for sheet books at companies like Alfred Publishing. This type of work is crucial for musicians who want to establish a foothold in the industry. However, it tends to be more stable and less lucrative compared to other forms of professional work.

Making Your Mark in Television Music Composition

For musicians who can play keyboards proficiently and understand how to create sounds from digital interfaces, there is a potential to secure salaried work composing music for television. Two of my colleagues started their careers at Saban Entertainment, creating music for the popular show Power Rangers. They were salaried employees but did not own the songwriter's share of the work. One of them now composes music for TV shows and cartoons, with a songwriter's share that can take up to a year to receive and must be reported to ASCAP or BMI.

Saban Entertainment often produced music for cartoons for free, but retain all revenues from both the publisher and writer's share. These roles can be highly lucrative, with a potential daily rate of $1000 for a single show on networks like NBC, ABC, or CBS, distributed over 52 weeks in a year. However, upfront payment is delayed for up to a year, and musicians must meticulously create and submit their work, including titles and cue sheets for proper compensation.

Session Work and Professional Gigs

Professional sessions, where musicians perform according to sheet music, are another significant avenue for earning income. This role typically requires a combination of sight-reading, understanding of notation, and proficiency with MIDI controllers and small amplifiers. Entry-level session players can earn around $50 per hour, while top-tier professionals like Victor Feldman and Michael Omartian can make up to $2000 for an 8-hour session, particularly for work with Grammy-winning and platinum-recorded tracks.

The gig economy in music also includes jingle writing and voiceovers for TV spots. For those who can write and produce catchy jingles and harmonious voiceovers, the rewards can be substantial. However, success often requires a keen ear for genre-appropriate music and the ability to create imperceptive yet memorable tunes. During my early career, I found success in producing jingles on analog tape, a now-defunct method of music creation in a digital age.

Building a Business Acumen

While talent is the foundation, building business acumen is crucial. Musicians who manage their work effectively, navigate contracts, and understand the value of their craft can position themselves for a more sustainable career. My personal experience taught me the importance of being business-savvy, even if it initially seemed at odds with my musical prowess. Over time, this skill set proved invaluable as it allowed me to thrive in the industry.

Conclusion

The path to becoming a professional musician and composer is varied and challenging. By developing a diverse set of skills, understanding the industry, and building a strong network, young musicians can embark on successful careers. Whether through transposing sheet music, composing for television, performing in sessions, or creating jingles, there are opportunities for those willing to put in the work and adapt to the ever-changing landscape of the music industry.