Is becoming a classical composer right for me?
The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:
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How to become a Classical Composer
Aspiring classical composers follow a path of education, skill building, and practical experience to prepare for success in the field. Here are the key steps many professionals take to enter this career:
- Formal Education: Most composers pursue a Bachelor of Music Theory and Composition to build a solid foundation in theory, history, and orchestration. This degree provides a structured environment to receive feedback and have student ensembles perform their early works.
- Advanced Study: Earning a Master’s or Doctorate in Music is common for those who wish to teach at the university level or gain deeper specialization. These programs offer high-level mentorship and access to professional-grade recording and performance resources.
- Develop Technical Skills: It is essential to master music notation software and basic recording technology to produce professional materials. Being proficient at the piano is also highly recommended, as it serves as a primary tool for exploring harmonies and arrangements.
- Build a Portfolio: Developing a diverse body of work that showcases different styles and instrumentations is crucial for attracting clients. A strong portfolio often includes high-quality audio recordings and neatly engraved scores.
- Gain Practical Experience: Participating in summer festivals, workshops, and "call for scores" competitions helps get your music heard by new audiences. These opportunities often provide the first professional recordings of a composer's work.
- Networking and Professional Development: Joining organizations like ASCAP or BMI helps composers manage their royalties and connect with industry peers. Attending concerts and music conferences is a great way to meet the performers who might premiere your next piece.
- Seek Commissions: Starting with local community groups or student performers helps build a reputation for reliability and artistic quality. Over time, these smaller projects lead to larger paid commissions from established orchestras or foundations.
Certifications
While classical composition relies heavily on a portfolio of work, certain certifications and memberships can validate your professional standing and technical skills. Here are some relevant options:
- Avid Certified Professional for Sibelius: This certification proves a composer’s high level of proficiency in using industry-standard notation software. It is particularly useful for those looking to work as music copyists or orchestrators for other composers.
- PRO Membership (ASCAP/BMI/SESAC): Joining a Performing Rights Organization is a standard professional step for any composer. It ensures that you are legally recognized as a creator and allows you to collect royalties whenever your music is performed.
- American Composers Forum Membership: Membership in this national organization provides access to grants, professional and artistic development programs, and networking opportunities. It serves as a mark of professional engagement within the contemporary classical community.
- MIDI Recording Courses and Certifications: Earning a ‘Musical Instrument Digital Interface’ certificate in music production, audio engineering or music composition can be beneficial for media-focused composers. This validates your ability to produce high-quality digital mockups that sound like a live orchestra.