From Silence to Sound: Composing for Film & Commercials from Udemy

Are you a composer that’s always been curious about scoring music for film, documentaries or commercials?

This class takes you through the fundamental elements (with real life examples) for scoring music to moving picture. At the end of this class, you’ll have working strategies to:

Outline/layout your rough draft so the music fits
Determine the right tempo/meter
Make important decisions about how to approach composing for your video
Successfully communicate with the director
Respond to a reference track

It used to be that having a custom film score was out of reach, except the big budget movies. There's now an explosion of indie films, in need of music. And tremendous opportunity for new composers to find projects to work on. In addition, you can now finish/complete a film score with a home recording studio. Writing music for film is an opportunity to make a huge impact on the emotional tone of a film/project. Your contribution will greatly shape how the viewer interprets the events happening on the screen.

These are real world examples for composing for commercials, or composing for film. This class also assumes that you have a working knowledge of music theory, and using audio recording software. And probably some experiencing composing songs/music already. We will be looking more specifically on applying those skills to moving picture/video/film.

#music #composition #songwriting #musicproduction #compose #filmscore #filmscoring

What's inside

Learning objectives

How to work with a creative brief
How to approach scoring music to moving picture

Examples from documentaries, commercials, and narrative film

How to work with a creative brief
How to approach scoring music to moving picture
Examples from documentaries, commercials, and narrative film

Syllabus

Introduction

Description of what will be covered in the class - film scoring, and composing music for commercials. Also outlines what will NOT be taught.

Composing examples

Overview of composing for moving picture

Documentary: Jumper

Initial Work on Jumper

Narrative: Simba

Initial Work on Simba

Director Revisions: Jumper

Director Revisions: Simba

Alternative Revisions: Simba

Commercial: Deer

Commercial: Mannequin

Initial Work on Deer

Initial Work on Mannequin

Director Revisions: Deer

Alternative Revisions: Deer

Director Revisions: Mannequin

Final Thoughts

Watching me work with a student to critique their piece of music.

Review of the assignment

Student - Rough Draft

Initial Thoughts on Student Work

Further Breakdown of Student Work

Expanding on Student's Idea

Another Attempt

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Develops a practical approach to scoring music for videos

Examines real-world examples of composing for commercials and films

Instructs from the foundational level and employs examples throughout

Walk-throughs and revisions illustrate authentic work experiences

Taught by an experienced composer with expertise in film and commercial scoring

Suits composers with existing theoretical knowledge and experience in music creation

Reviews summary

Engaging film music composition

According to students, this film music composition course provides an engaging experience with personal insights on the topic. Learners say the course is taught by industry professionals who break down the creative process of composing music for film and commercials. They say this makes a complex topic more accessible, and they also appreciate the course's focus on practical application.

Focus on hands-on, practical application.

"Appreciate the focus on practical application."

Industry professionals teach the course.

"Learned about the creative process of composing music for film and commercials from industry professionals who break down the process."

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 From Silence to Sound: Composing for Film & Commercials with these activities:

Review Music Theory Concepts

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Reviewing music theory concepts will help you solidify your understanding of the fundamentals of music, which is essential for composing and scoring music effectively.

Browse courses on Music Theory

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Revisit basic music theory concepts such as scales, intervals, and chords.
Practice reading and writing musical notation.
Analyze existing compositions to identify how music theory is applied in practice.

Review Music Theory Concepts

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Review the basic concepts of music theory to ensure a strong foundation for composing music for film.

Browse courses on Music Theory

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Review scales, chords, and intervals.
Practice sight-reading and ear training exercises.

Read The Film Score by John Powell

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This book provides a comprehensive overview of film scoring techniques, including orchestrating, harmonic and melodic ideas, and working with directors.

View Mother on Amazon

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Read Chapter 1 to understand the basics of film scoring.
Read Chapter 2 to learn about the different elements of a film score.
Read Chapter 3 to learn about the creative process of film scoring.
Listen to the musical examples provided in the book.

Six other activities

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Explore Scoring Techniques

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Going through scoring technique tutorials will provide you with practical guidance on how to approach composing music for moving pictures.

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Watch video tutorials on film scoring techniques.
Follow along with written tutorials that provide step-by-step instructions.
Practice applying the techniques you learn to your own compositions.

Collaborate with Other Composers

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Collaborating with other composers will provide you with valuable feedback and insights, helping you refine your skills in film scoring.

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Join online forums or communities for film composers.
Attend workshops or meetups where you can connect with other composers.
Share your work with others and seek their feedback.
Collaborate on projects with other composers.

Attend Industry Webinars and Conferences

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Connect with professionals in the film scoring industry, learn about trends, and seek potential collaborations.

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Research industry events and identify relevant webinars and conferences.
Register and attend the events.
Network with composers, producers, and directors.
Present your work and seek feedback (optional).

Compose Short Musical Cues

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Regularly composing short musical cues will help you develop your skills in creating music that effectively conveys emotions and supports the narrative of a film or other moving picture.

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Choose a specific scene or moment from a film or video to compose for.
Identify the emotions and atmosphere you want to convey with your music.
Experiment with different musical elements (e.g., melody, harmony, rhythm) to create a cue that matches your intended expression.
Refine your cue based on feedback from others or your own critical listening.

Assist with Local Film Projects

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Gain practical experience by assisting with local film projects, allowing you to contribute and observe the filmmaking process.

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Contact local filmmakers or production companies.
Offer your assistance as an intern, composer, or production assistant.
Attend production meetings and assist with various tasks.
Observe the creative process and learn from experienced professionals.

Mentor Aspiring Film Composers

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Enhance your understanding by mentoring aspiring film composers, providing guidance and sharing your knowledge.

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Identify aspiring composers through local music schools or online platforms.
Offer to provide mentorship and guidance.
Share your experiences and provide constructive feedback.
Encourage mentees to develop their skills and pursue their aspirations.
Collaborate on projects or provide opportunities for performance.

Career center

Learners who complete From Silence to Sound: Composing for Film & Commercials will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Music Composer

Music Composers create original music for a variety of media, including film, television, video games, and commercials. They work closely with directors, producers, and other creative professionals to develop a musical score that enhances the emotional impact of the project. This course provides a solid foundation in the fundamentals of film scoring, including how to outline your rough draft, determine the right tempo/meter, and make important decisions about how to approach composing for your video. It also includes real-life examples from documentaries, commercials, and narrative films, which can be invaluable for aspiring Music Composers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Music Composer

Sound Designer

Sound Designers create and mix sound effects and music for film, television, video games, and other media. They work closely with directors, producers, and other creative professionals to develop a soundscape that enhances the emotional impact of the project. This course provides a foundation in the fundamentals of film scoring, including how to determine the right tempo/meter and make important decisions about how to approach composing for your video. It also includes real-life examples from documentaries, commercials, and narrative films, which can be invaluable for aspiring Sound Designers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sound Designer

Music Producer

Music Producers oversee the production of music recordings, including the recording, mixing, and mastering process. They work closely with musicians, engineers, and other creative professionals to ensure that the final product meets the artist's vision. This course provides a foundation in the fundamentals of film scoring, including how to outline your rough draft, determine the right tempo/meter, and make important decisions about how to approach composing for your video. It also includes real-life examples from documentaries, commercials, and narrative films, which can be invaluable for aspiring Music Producers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Music Producer

Audio Engineer

Audio Engineers are responsible for the recording, mixing, and mastering of audio recordings. They work closely with musicians, producers, and other creative professionals to ensure that the final product meets the artist's vision. This course provides a foundation in the fundamentals of film scoring, including how to determine the right tempo/meter and make important decisions about how to approach composing for your video. It also includes real-life examples from documentaries, commercials, and narrative films, which can be invaluable for aspiring Audio Engineers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Audio Engineer

Video Editor

Video Editors are responsible for assembling and editing video footage into a cohesive story. They work closely with directors, producers, and other creative professionals to create a video that meets the director's vision. This course provides a foundation in the fundamentals of film scoring, including how to outline your rough draft, determine the right tempo/meter, and make important decisions about how to approach composing for your video. It also includes real-life examples from documentaries, commercials, and narrative films, which can be invaluable for aspiring Video Editors.

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Film Editor

Film Editors are responsible for assembling and editing film footage into a cohesive story. They work closely with directors, producers, and other creative professionals to create a film that meets the director's vision. This course provides a foundation in the fundamentals of film scoring, including how to outline your rough draft, determine the right tempo/meter, and make important decisions about how to approach composing for your video. It also includes real-life examples from documentaries, commercials, and narrative films, which can be invaluable for aspiring Film Editors.

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Multimedia Artist

Multimedia Artists create and produce works of art that combine multiple media, such as sound, images, and text. They work closely with clients and other creative professionals to develop multimedia projects that meet specific needs. This course provides a foundation in the fundamentals of film scoring, including how to outline your rough draft, determine the right tempo/meter, and make important decisions about how to approach composing for your video. It also includes real-life examples from documentaries, commercials, and narrative films, which can be invaluable for aspiring Multimedia Artists.

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Music Therapist

Music Therapists use music to help people improve their physical, emotional, and cognitive health. They work closely with clients and other healthcare professionals to develop music therapy programs that meet specific needs. This course provides a foundation in the fundamentals of film scoring, including how to outline your rough draft, determine the right tempo/meter, and make important decisions about how to approach composing for your video. It also includes real-life examples from documentaries, commercials, and narrative films, which can be invaluable for aspiring Music Therapists.

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Music Teacher

Music Teachers instruct students in the fundamentals of music, including music theory, history, and performance. They work closely with students to develop their musical skills and knowledge. This course provides a foundation in the fundamentals of film scoring, including how to outline your rough draft, determine the right tempo/meter, and make important decisions about how to approach composing for your video. It also includes real-life examples from documentaries, commercials, and narrative films, which can be invaluable for aspiring Music Teachers.

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Music Critic

Music Critics write reviews and articles about music for newspapers, magazines, and websites. They work closely with musicians, producers, and other creative professionals to provide their insights on the latest music trends. This course provides a foundation in the fundamentals of film scoring, including how to outline your rough draft, determine the right tempo/meter, and make important decisions about how to approach composing for your video. It also includes real-life examples from documentaries, commercials, and narrative films, which can be invaluable for aspiring Music Critics.

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Music Journalist

Music Journalists write articles and features about music for newspapers, magazines, and websites. They work closely with musicians, producers, and other creative professionals to provide their insights on the latest music trends. This course provides a foundation in the fundamentals of film scoring, including how to outline your rough draft, determine the right tempo/meter, and make important decisions about how to approach composing for your video. It also includes real-life examples from documentaries, commercials, and narrative films, which can be invaluable for aspiring Music Journalists.

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Music Librarian

Music Librarians are responsible for acquiring, organizing, and preserving music materials. They work closely with musicians, researchers, and other music professionals to provide access to music resources. This course provides a foundation in the fundamentals of film scoring, including how to outline your rough draft, determine the right tempo/meter, and make important decisions about how to approach composing for your video. It also includes real-life examples from documentaries, commercials, and narrative films, which can be invaluable for aspiring Music Librarians.

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Music Supervisor

Music Supervisors are responsible for selecting and licensing music for films, television shows, and other media. They work closely with music publishers, record labels, and other music professionals to ensure that the music meets the director's vision. This course may be useful for aspiring Music Supervisors as it provides a foundation in the fundamentals of film scoring, including how to outline your rough draft, determine the right tempo/meter, and make important decisions about how to approach composing for your video.

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Music Archivist

Music Archivists are responsible for preserving and cataloging music materials. They work closely with musicians, researchers, and other music professionals to ensure that music heritage is preserved for future generations. This course may be useful for aspiring Music Archivists as it provides a foundation in the fundamentals of film scoring, including how to outline your rough draft, determine the right tempo/meter, and make important decisions about how to approach composing for your video.

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Music Director

Music Directors are responsible for overseeing the musical aspects of a production. They work closely with musicians, producers, and other creative professionals to ensure that the music meets the director's vision. This course may be useful for aspiring Music Directors as it provides a foundation in the fundamentals of film scoring, including how to outline your rough draft, determine the right tempo/meter, and make important decisions about how to approach composing for your video.

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