Discover a diverse array of tips covering all subjects related to becoming a professional media music composer. Our posts encompass small yet valuable tips on various theory subjects, orchestration techniques, DAW tricks, and even insights derived from our own experiences as we embarked on our journey towards becoming professional composers. All of this knowledge can be readily applied in real-world scenarios.
“Despite his untimely passing in 1975, Bernard Herrmann’s enduring legacy continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide, making him one of the most celebrated and influential composers in the history of film and music.” Brief Introduction to Bernard Herrmann Bernard Herrmann was a prolific and influential composer known for his remarkable contributions to film scores … Read more
DOUBLE HARMONIC MAJOR SCALE (BYZANTINE/ARABIC) – Scale Structure: 1 ♭2 3 4 5 ♭6 7– Characteristic Notes: ♭2 & ♮3, ♭6 & ♮7– Analogous to the fifth mode of the Hungarian Minor Scale The Double Harmonic Major originates from the traditional music of the Balkan Peninsula, the Middle East, and India. This series of notes … Read more
This article was written by Robin Hall, the co-author of the Behind the Score series. Recently, he sent an email to his friend who was seeking advice on how to enter the music industry. In the email, Robin candidly shares his firsthand experiences as a full-time composer, reflecting on both the difficulties he encountered and … Read more
Using Chord Arpeggios for a Melodic Idea Many composers create melodies using arpeggios. Some famous examples of arpeggio-driven melodies include the cello in Beethoven’s “Eroica” Symphony No. 3 (Movement 1), the brass in “The Imperial March (Darth Vader’s Theme)” by John Williams, and sax in “Giant Steps” by John Coltrane. In more recent TV and … Read more
Introduction: Twelve-tone Technique The twelve-tone technique, also known as dodecaphony, is a method of composition that emerged in the early 20th century and revolutionized the world of classical music. Developed by Austrian composer Arnold Schoenberg and his disciples, this technique sought to break away from the traditional tonal system and introduce a new approach to … Read more
Woodwind players, across a range of instruments such as the flute, clarinet, saxophone, and oboe, understand the vital role that breathing plays in their musical performance. From the first gentle inhale to the steady exhale, the art of controlled breathing is the foundation upon which their melodies and harmonies come alive. The way woodwind players … Read more
In mm. 1-2, you may wonder why the lowest cello note is written as a D♯ instead of an E♭. The notes E♭ and B spell an augmented 5th interval, which is somewhat awkward to read. By using the enharmonic equivalent (D♯), the interval becomes a 6th, which is much easier for a cellist to … Read more
Pedal Points for a dramatic build-up In this episode, we demonstrate using pedal points for a dramatic build-up in your piece! [Study Pack] This post was brought to you in collaboration with our partner site Behind the Score. Discover the Harmony Secrets of Modern Film and Video Games.
This post was brought to you in collaboration with our partner site Behind the Score. Discover the Harmony Secrets of Modern Film and Video Games. Polyrhythm vs Polymeter Both polyrhythm and polymeter are techniques used to combine different rhythms simultaneously in music. This adds complexity and creates more interesting rhythmic patterns. Polyrhythm Polyrhythm involves combining … Read more
Emulate Harp Dampening Using VST Instruments Here’s a short but incredibly powerful tutorial on how to mimic harp dampening using a virtual instrument. Presented by the renowned Robert Davis! [Study Pack] This post was brought to you in collaboration with our partner site Behind the Score. Discover the Harmony Secrets of Modern Film and Video … Read more
