Game and Film composers need to be able to create music that is both captivating and dynamic. There are many ways that you can prepare yourself for these tasks, and here are ten things to consider:
1: Prepare Your Computer
The first thing you'll want to do is set up your computer correctly to handle large projects without creating problems. Even so, problems will arise. So make sure you're prepared to improvise and get projects finished regardless of the circumstances. The more carefully you prepare, the smoother your production experience will be.
2: Routine Is Essential
One of the most important things for success in video game music and anything else is to make a routine. Try doing the same thing every day at the same time. If you can't do that exactly, make sure you stick with some routine.
3: Learn Audio Technology
If you want to compose music for video games, you must familiarize yourself with the latest audio technology. You don't have to become an expert in all things audio, but you have to have a good idea about what kinds of things are possible.
4: Start Learning How To Score
As soon as possible, start learning how to score film and video games. You don't want to find yourself at a complete loss when it comes time to do your first project. There are many resources to learn film and game scoring, including my course: Film and Game Music Demo Reel with Logic Pro.
5: Practice Scoring As Much As Possible
Scoring is something that requires practice. So the more you score, the better you'll get at it. Make sure that while practicing, though, that you're aware of all of your errors and work to fix them. Don't just keep making the same mistakes over and over. Also, don't aim for perfection, or you'll never get anything done!
6: Learn How To Orchestrate
If you want to work in the business, you must learn how to orchestrate. Scoring begins with composing music, but there are many other steps necessary before your music is finished; one of them is orchestrating.
7: Get Familiar With The Business Side Of Things
It's not enough to only write music or orchestrate. You also have to know how to run a business and understand the necessary types of contracts for all parties involved. There's no way around this, unfortunately. Of course, when you have a lot of work, you can hire someone to help you administrate your business. But in the beginning, you'll want to be hands-on with your composing career.
8: Learn How To Act Professionally
You must be able to act professionally. This means following up on projects, responding when people request things from you, and continuing your work even when challenges come along. The golden rule is to treat others as you want to be treated, and you'll be a pleasure to work with.
9: Prepare For A Long Journey Ahead
This journey is not going to be quick. It's going to take effort and time. But, time will pass no matter what you do, so it's better to work hard and get things done. You won't ever regret trying, but you'll regret never trying.
10: Realize Your Worth & Don't Settle For Less
As with anything else in life, the more you put into something, the more you get out of it. You have to realize how important your time is and how much it's worth. Don't be afraid to ask for a little more in return if you put a lot of time and effort into something. Also, please don't settle for less than what you think your time is worth when it comes to the projects that you work on.
If film and game composing sounds interesting to you, you'll be interested in this training program: Film and Game Music Demo Reel with Logic Pro
Happy composing!