We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Course image
J. Anthony Allen

Every single question posted to this class is answered within 24 hours by the instructor.

Welcome to the The most popular film scoring online course.

This is a class designed for the average person who is ready to take their music career (or music interest) and develop it into something more. Whether you are an active musician or an aspiring musician, this class is perfect for you.

Read more

Every single question posted to this class is answered within 24 hours by the instructor.

Welcome to the The most popular film scoring online course.

This is a class designed for the average person who is ready to take their music career (or music interest) and develop it into something more. Whether you are an active musician or an aspiring musician, this class is perfect for you.

In this course, we will learn the essential techniques used in writing music for the film. Through a series of analysis' of well-known film scenes from your favorite movies we will learn what makes a great cue, and then apply those techniques by writing our own. I'll be showing you some of my own projects for film and television throughout the class, and walk you through my process when composing music for a film project.

By the end of this course, students will understand the tools, lingo, and techniques used in the film composing world and will be ready to dive into their own projects. I'll walk you through how to get started on your first project by using freely available movies that need a score. 

Throughout my career, I've worked with major American orchestras, film studios, and video game designers. I'm also a Ph.D. in music composition and a university professor (of music composition). 

Recently I was named as a semi-finalist for the Grammy Foundation's Music Educator of the Year award because of my in-person university classes. Now I'm taking those classes to Udemy in an online format in order to reach more students and give them the joy of Music Theory.

I'm planning on making several "sections" of this class, and this is Part 1. As the class grows, we will go deeper and deeper into my techniques. 

In this class, we will cover:

  • Tools of the trade

  • Finding the emotional response

  • Music Theory and Genre

  • Scoring for film

  • Using Modes in Film Scores

  • Finding the Message

  • Learning from Temp Cues

  • "Spotting" the film

  • Film score composition techniques

  • Working with industry budgets

  • Diegetic music and non-diegetic music

  • Score and Source

  • The Ostinato

  • Working with silent films

  • Setting up a session

  • Marking hits

  • Scoring the opening credits

  • Motive and Leitmotif

  • Working with Leitmotifs

  • Working with the rhythm in cues

  • POV

  • Finding and analyzing POV scenes

  • Composing using POV

  • And much, much, more.  

And of course, once you sign up for this class, all my other classes are yours at steep discounts. Over half off for all future sections.

The course is a roadmap to launching your career as a composer.

All the tools you need to prepare, organize and start your career are included in this course and the entire course is based on real-life experiences - not just academic theory.

Please click the "Take This Course" button so you can launch your music career today.

I guarantee that this course is the most thorough music business course available ANYWHERE on the market - or your money back (30-day money-back guarantee)

Closed captions have been added to all lessons in this course.

Praise for Courses by Jason Allen:

⇢  "It seems like every little detail is being covered in an extremely simple fashion. The learning process becomes relaxed and allows complex concepts to get absorbed easily. My only regret is not taking this course earlier." - M. Shah

⇢  "Great for everyone without any knowledge so far. I bought all three parts... It's the best investment in leveling up my skills so far.." - Z. Palce

⇢  "Excellent explanations.  No more or less than what is needed." - A. Tóth

⇢  "VERY COOL. I've waited for years to see a good video course, now I don't have to wait anymore. Thank You. " - Jeffrey Koury

⇢  "I am learning LOTS.  And I really like having the worksheets. " - A. Deichsel

⇢  "The basics explained very clearly - loads of really useful tips. " - J. Pook

⇢  "Jason is really quick and great with questions, always a great resource for an online class. " M. Smith

Students who register for this course will receive ongoing exclusive content and discounts for all future classes in the series. 

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Get started building a portfolio of work to show their film composition talents
  • Score a feature film using a variety of techniques
  • Understand the process of writing music for film
  • Write and compose music using proven techniques and tips
  • Create their own music using software, or good old pencil and paper.
  • Generate musical ideas through creativity exercises
  • Tools of the trade: software
  • How do you start?
  • The process
  • Program music and metaphors
  • Character sketches
  • Writing through canon
  • Score and source
  • Practicing with silent films
  • Setting up a session
  • Marking hits
  • Scoring the opening credits
  • Working with rhythm in cues
  • Finding and analyzing pov scenes
  • Creating atmosphere
  • Harmonizing string melodies
  • Polyrhythmic accompaniment
  • Working with string orchestra
  • The chase scene
  • Using the brass section
  • Building tension
  • Show more
  • Show less

Syllabus

Introduction
Tools of the Trade, and a Look at One of My Projects
Update! MuseScore 3.0
What I've Found in Other Film Scoring Classes
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Taught by Dr. Anthony Allen, who has worked with major American orchestras, film studios, and video game designers
Provides students with real-world examples and avoids solely focusing on academic theories
Offers a comprehensive study of film scoring techniques, from basic tools to advanced industry practices
Develops skills in composing music for film, from generating ideas to writing cues
Provides hands-on opportunities to work on real-world projects
Suitable for both aspiring and active musicians seeking to advance their film scoring careers
Introduces students to the tools, terminology, and techniques used in the film scoring industry

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save

Reviews summary

Comprehensive film scoring for aspiring composers

According to students, this bundle offers a highly comprehensive and accessible pathway into film scoring. Learners note the instructor's profound expertise and clear, engaging teaching style, which simplifies complex musical concepts. The course is perceived as a thorough roadmap, guiding students from foundational music theory and analysis techniques to practical, real-world application and strategies for launching a professional career. Many appreciate the focus on detailed analysis of film scenes and the inclusion of the instructor's own projects, providing valuable insights. While its comprehensive nature may lead to a deliberate pace, it is widely regarded as an invaluable resource for both serious hobbyists and aspiring film composers.
Introduces notation software, less emphasis on DAWs.
"The course guided me on using MuseScore for notation, which was a good starting point for learning the tools of the trade."
"While the principles are universally applicable, I felt the course could benefit from more examples using modern digital audio workstations."
"I found the focus on composing with traditional notation valuable, but also explored how to apply these concepts in my preferred DAW."
Structured for clarity, beneficial for varied skill levels.
"As a beginner, I found that complex concepts were absorbed easily because every little detail was covered in an extremely simple fashion."
"The course is great for anyone without prior knowledge; I learned a lot from the clear explanations and useful tips."
"I appreciated that the course is designed for the average person, allowing me to take my music interest further."
Focus on real-world film scene analysis and project insights.
"Analyzing well-known film scenes helped me understand what makes a great cue and apply those techniques to my own writing."
"I really valued seeing the instructor's professional projects and learning his process for composing music for film and TV."
"The practical advice on 'spotting' films and understanding industry dynamics like budgets is extremely valuable for me."
Covers a wide range from fundamentals to career development.
"This bundle is incredibly thorough, teaching me everything from finding emotional responses to working with industry budgets."
"I gained a deep understanding of film scoring techniques, including diegetic music, ostinatos, and leitmotifs, across both parts."
"The course provides a complete roadmap to starting a film composition career, incorporating real-life experiences."
Instructor's vast knowledge and dedication to student success.
"I find Dr. Allen's explanations incredibly clear, and he breaks down complex topics into digestible chunks brilliantly."
"The instructor is a phenomenal teacher; his passion for film scoring is infectious, and he packs lessons with real-world advice."
"I really appreciate that the instructor answers every single question I post within 24 hours, which is incredibly helpful."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Film Scoring Bundle: Writing Music For Films: Parts 1 and 2 with these activities:
Read 'Film Music: A History' by Claudia Gorbman
Gain insights into the history and evolution of film scoring to enhance your understanding of the craft
Show steps
  • Purchase or borrow the book
  • Read the book in its entirety
  • Take notes on key concepts and ideas
Follow online film scoring tutorials
Expand your knowledge and skills by following step-by-step tutorials from experienced professionals
Browse courses on Film Scoring
Show steps
  • Search for online tutorials on film scoring
  • Choose a tutorial that aligns with your skill level and interests
  • Follow the instructions and practice the techniques
Join a study group
Collaborate and share knowledge with other students to enhance your learning
Show steps
  • Find a group of peers who are also taking the course
  • Meet regularly to discuss course materials and work together on assignments
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Practice writing music using different techniques
Enhance your proficiency by regularly practicing and refining your composition skills
Show steps
  • Choose a specific technique to focus on
  • Compose short musical exercises using that technique
  • Repeat the process with different techniques
Attend a film scoring workshop or conference
Immerse yourself in the world of film scoring by attending specialized events and workshops
Browse courses on Film Scoring
Show steps
  • Research upcoming film scoring events
  • Register and attend the event
  • Participate actively in workshops and networking opportunities
Start composing a soundtrack
Reinforce your understanding of film scoring techniques by starting your own composition.
Show steps
  • Choose a film scene to score
  • Analyze the scene and identify key emotional moments
  • Compose a melody and harmony that captures the emotional response
Create a blog or vlog about your film scoring progress
Share your experiences, insights, and compositions with others to engage with the wider film scoring community
Show steps
  • Choose a platform for your blog or vlog
  • Create regular content that showcases your work
  • Interact with your audience and gather feedback
Reach out to professional film composers for guidance
Connect with experienced professionals who can provide valuable insights and support
Show steps
  • Research and identify potential mentors
  • Contact the mentors and express your interest in connecting
  • Establish regular communication and seek guidance

Career center

Learners who complete Film Scoring Bundle: Writing Music For Films: Parts 1 and 2 will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Reading list

We've selected 49 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Film Scoring Bundle: Writing Music For Films: Parts 1 and 2.
A comprehensive textbook on film music, covering all aspects of the subject from history to aesthetics.
Considered a definitive reference in music notation, this book provides a deep dive into the principles and best practices of preparing musical scores. While not specific to MuseScore, the knowledge gained from this book is essential for any user who wants to create professional-quality sheet music using the software. It valuable resource for understanding why certain notation conventions exist and how to apply them correctly in MuseScore. is widely used by professionals and in academic settings.
Is widely considered a cornerstone resource for anyone serious about film scoring. It offers a comprehensive overview of the craft, covering historical context, technical aspects, and the collaborative process. While not the most recent, its foundational knowledge and extensive interviews with notable composers make it a valuable reference and a must-read for both students and aspiring professionals. It's often recommended as a core text in academic settings.
Explores contemporary compositional trends and practices, helping composers navigate the diverse landscape of modern music. It is highly relevant for understanding current topics in music composition and offers guidance for developing a personal voice in the 21st century. Published recently, it provides up-to-date perspectives.
A comprehensive history of film music, from its origins in the silent era to its modern incarnations.
A collection of interviews with film composers, discussing their creative process and the challenges of scoring films.
Serves as a comprehensive guide specifically for the MuseScore software. It is ideal for users looking to gain a broad understanding of the program's features and functionalities, from basic note entry to more advanced techniques. While based on an earlier version, the core principles and workflows remain highly relevant for solidifying an understanding of MuseScore as a powerful music notation tool. It functions as a practical reference for navigating the software.
This guide provides a practical and comprehensive look at film scoring, encompassing both the artistic and business sides of the profession. It covers techniques for composing, working with directors, and navigating the industry. It's a strong resource for those seeking to understand the practicalities of film scoring as a career and is often recommended for intermediate learners and those transitioning into the professional world.
Schoenberg's exploration of harmony in classical and romantic music, delving into the concept of monotonality and key relationships within larger structures. is vital for deepening understanding of harmonic language and significant reference for advanced students and professionals. It builds upon foundational harmony knowledge.
Surveys a wide range of compositional techniques developed in the 20th century, including atonality, serialism, and other experimental approaches. It is essential for understanding the historical context and technical aspects of modern music composition and is often used as a textbook.
Delves into the theoretical and practical aspects of how music functions within film to convey meaning and emotion. It analyzes landmark film scores, providing insights into the compositional techniques used by masters of the craft. This is an excellent resource for deepening one's understanding of the 'why' behind film music and is suitable for intermediate to advanced students and professionals.
Offers a practical guide to composing music for video games, covering the unique creative and technical challenges of this medium. It is highly relevant for those interested in contemporary applications of music composition and provides valuable insights into a growing field. It is suitable for upper-level undergraduates and professionals.
A comprehensive guide to orchestration with a focus on practical application and examples from the repertoire. complements theoretical study with practical insights into writing for different instruments and ensembles. It valuable reference for students and professionals.
A definitive guide to the principles of twelve-tone and atonal music, focusing on the Second Viennese School. is essential for understanding a significant period in 20th-century composition and provides deep insight into these techniques. It is geared towards advanced students and researchers.
A widely used textbook on orchestration that provides a clear and systematic approach to writing for orchestral instruments. It is valuable for deepening understanding of instrumental capabilities and standard resource in academic music programs.
Provides a detailed method for analyzing musical form in the classical style. Understanding form is fundamental to composition, and this book offers a rigorous approach that is highly respected in academic circles. It is valuable for deepening understanding and is often used in theory and composition programs.
This standard textbook for undergraduate and graduate music theory programs, focusing on tonal harmony and voice leading. A strong understanding of these concepts is crucial for composing and arranging music effectively in MuseScore. provides the foundational knowledge to create well-structured and musically sound compositions or arrangements within the software. It is commonly used as a textbook at academic institutions.
Written by a renowned film composer, this book offers insights into the creative process and techniques used in scoring for visual media. It covers various genres and fundamental concepts, providing practical advice from an industry veteran. is valuable for gaining perspective from a successful practitioner.
A classic text on orchestration by a master composer. While older, it offers timeless insights into combining instruments effectively and understanding orchestral color. It is more valuable as additional reading and historical context rather than a primary contemporary reference, but its principles remain relevant.
Covers a broad range of compositional topics, offering practical advice and aesthetic considerations. It is suitable for students looking to develop their craft and provides a solid overview of essential concepts. It can be used as a textbook or for self-study.
This comprehensive resource provides detailed information on musical instruments and the principles of orchestration. For MuseScore users who are arranging or composing for various ensembles, this book crucial reference for understanding instrumental capabilities and combining sounds effectively within their scores.
Explores the aesthetic principles and techniques behind composing music for film. It delves into how music can serve the narrative and emotional needs of a film, with discussions of iconic scores. It's a good resource for understanding the artistic considerations in film scoring and is suitable for intermediate learners.
Provides a comprehensive overview of modern film scoring, discussing techniques, styles, and the work of contemporary composers. It's a good resource for understanding current practices in the industry. While it might not delve into extreme technical detail, it offers a broad perspective on the contemporary landscape.
Provides practical guidance on the business and career aspects of film scoring, including navigating the industry, finding work, and managing relationships. It's a valuable resource for aspiring and emerging composers seeking to understand the professional landscape.
A study of the relationship between film music and sound design, exploring how they work together to create a cohesive and effective soundtrack.
A textbook on film music composition, providing step-by-step instructions on how to write music for film.
This classic text on species counterpoint, providing a historical and foundational approach to contrapuntal writing. While the original is centuries old, this translation makes its principles accessible and is valuable for understanding the historical development of compositional techniques. It foundational text for counterpoint study.
A critical analysis of film music, examining its role in film and its relationship to other forms of music.
Offers a comprehensive historical survey of film music from the silent era to the present. It covers major trends, influential composers, and the evolution of scoring practices. It's an excellent resource for gaining a strong historical foundation in the field.
Serves as a comprehensive introduction to film music, covering its history, the scoring process, and the use of technology. Written in a non-technical style, it is accessible for beginners and provides a solid foundation for understanding the fundamentals of the field. It also includes insights from contemporary composers.
This guide provides practical advice and techniques for composing music specifically for visual media. It covers the workflow, technical considerations, and creative approaches relevant to scoring for film and television. It's a useful resource for those looking for a practical guide to the process.
Offers a collection of exercises designed to stimulate creativity through working within specific constraints. It practical resource for composers looking to develop their skills and explore new approaches to composition. It is suitable for various levels and encourages hands-on learning.
Another valuable resource for MuseScore users interested in game music. explores the theoretical and practical considerations of composing music for interactive media, offering different perspectives and techniques compared to linear film scoring. It's relevant for applying music notation and composition skills learned through MuseScore to the specific demands of game development.
Explores the technical aspects of music and sound in film and television production. It covers topics such as recording, mixing, and the role of technology in contemporary scoring. This useful resource for understanding the technical workflows involved in film music production.
This guide from Berklee Press focuses on contemporary music notation practices, including those relevant to popular music, jazz, and commercial styles. It complements a MuseScore user's skills by providing context on modern notation standards and how to achieve them, extending beyond classical notation. It useful reference for creating scores and parts in various contemporary genres using MuseScore.
Offers a practical and insightful approach to musical composition from a contemporary perspective. It covers various aspects of the craft, providing valuable guidance for MuseScore users who are actively composing. It helps bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and the practical application of creating music within the software.
This concise book offers a broad overview of the history and evolution of film music across different styles and global contexts. It's an accessible entry point for beginners and provides a foundational understanding of the academic study of film music. While not a technical guide, it's valuable for establishing historical context and understanding the role of music in film.
Provides a friendly and accessible introduction to music theory fundamentals, which are essential prerequisites for composition. It is excellent for high school students or those new to music theory looking to gain a broad understanding before diving into composition specifics. It serves as a useful reference for basic concepts.
Considered a classic in film music scholarship, this book provides a historical and critical analysis of film music. While an older publication, it offers foundational perspectives on the artistic significance of film scores. It's more valuable for historical context and academic study than for contemporary technical guidance.
Focuses on the harmonic language commonly used in Hollywood film scores. It analyzes recurring harmonic devices and their emotional impact on the audience. This more specialized book suitable for those with a solid music theory background who want to delve into the specific harmonic techniques of film music.
While not strictly a film scoring textbook, this influential book examines the complex relationship between sound and image in film. Understanding this dynamic is crucial for film composers to create effective and impactful scores that work in conjunction with the overall sound design. It's a theoretical text that provides a deeper understanding of the cinematic experience.
Offers a beginner-friendly introduction to essential music theory concepts. It's an excellent resource for high school or early undergraduate students using MuseScore who need to build a foundational understanding of theory to effectively input and manipulate music within the software. It helps provide the prerequisite knowledge for music notation and composition in MuseScore.
A classic text on orchestration, this book offers timeless principles for arranging music for orchestral instruments. Many film composers have studied this work to understand how to effectively combine instruments. While older, its principles remain relevant for creating rich and balanced orchestral textures in film scores. It's a valuable reference for those with a solid musical foundation.
This textbook introduces students to the world of film music, covering its history, purpose, and techniques. It emphasizes the early development of film music and examines the work of various composers. It's designed as an accessible resource for those new to the subject.
A widely used series for learning music theory fundamentals, often in classroom settings. This complete volume provides a structured approach to understanding music theory, which is directly applicable to reading, writing, and editing music in MuseScore. It's an excellent resource for students and self-learners to solidify their theoretical understanding.
Another accessible guide to music theory for beginners. helps MuseScore users build a solid theoretical foundation, covering concepts from the very basics upwards. It's valuable for understanding the building blocks of music notation and composition within the software.
This historical text on orchestration offers a detailed look at instruments and their usage in the early 20th century. While not a primary guide for contemporary practice in MuseScore, it provides fascinating historical context and a deep understanding of the evolution of orchestration. It is best used as supplementary reading for those interested in the history and foundational concepts of orchestral writing.

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:

Similar courses

Here are nine courses similar to Film Scoring Bundle: Writing Music For Films: Parts 1 and 2.
Songwriting: Writing the Music
Most relevant
Compose and Program Music in Python using Earsketch
Most relevant
Music Theory Comprehensive Complete: Parts 16, 17, & 18
Most relevant
Learn Keyboard - The Indian Classical Way - Level 1
Most relevant
Making Game Music: For Complete Beginners
Most relevant
How to Sound Design for Music Composition
Most relevant
Music theory And Everything You Need To Know About Music
Most relevant
Master Percussion Fundamentals for Music Composition
Most relevant
MuseScore: Mastering Music Notation Free Software
Most relevant

Udemy Buyer Protection & Guarantee

Verified partner policies & purchase protections

Global Marketplace Leader
Free Trial & Audit

Free Lecture Previews

Free preview video lectures available for all courses; optional 7-day free trial on Personal Plan subscriptions (cancel before trial ends to avoid conversion).

Return & Refund Policy

30-Day Money-Back Guarantee

30-day money-back guarantee on all eligible individual course purchases (provided course content has not been substantially consumed or downloaded). Subscription fees are non-refundable once billed.

Buyer Protections

Verified Academic & Industry Partner

Lifetime access to purchased individual courses and future updates, verifiable certificate of completion, and direct student Q&A forums.

Key Purchase Protections
30-day 100% money-back guarantee on course purchases
Lifetime access on web, mobile, and offline
Certificate of completion included with purchase
Direct instructor Q&A and active student community
OpenCourser Verified Partner Policy details last reviewed: 2026-10-22
Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser