How to become an orchestrator

Is becoming an orchestrator 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:

Overview
What do orchestrators do?
Personality
What are orchestrators like?

Still unsure if becoming an orchestrator is the right career path? to find out if this career is right for you. Perhaps you are well-suited to become an orchestrator or another similar career!

Described by our users as being “shockingly accurate”, you might discover careers you haven’t thought of before.

How to become an Orchestrator

Becoming an orchestrator involves a combination of musical education, practical experience, networking, and a deep understanding of composition. Here is a guide to help you pursue a career as an orchestrator:

  • Musical Education: Build a strong foundation in music through formal study. A Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Music, or Music Theory and Composition with a focus on orchestration, can be especially valuable.
  • Learn Instrumentation and Orchestration Techniques: Study the characteristics and capabilities of orchestral instruments, including their timbres, ranges, and expressive qualities. Understanding how instruments blend and contrast is key to effective orchestration.
  • Master Music Theory: Strengthen your knowledge of harmony, counterpoint, and musical analysis. A solid grounding in theory supports better decision-making about voicing, chord progressions, and structure.
  • Instrument Proficiency: While not strictly required, playing one or more instruments offers practical insight into technique and sound production, which can improve your orchestrations.
  • Study Existing Scores: Analyze orchestral scores from both classical and contemporary composers. Pay attention to how they use different instruments to achieve specific colors, textures, and emotional effects.
  • Gain Practical Experience: Work on orchestration projects whenever possible. Collaborate with composers, student filmmakers, or ensembles to gain hands-on experience adapting and orchestrating music.
  • Networking: Attend concerts, workshops, and industry events to meet composers, conductors, and other professionals. Building connections can lead to mentorships, collaborations, and job opportunities.
  • Build a Portfolio: Assemble a portfolio of your orchestrations, including excerpts, full scores, and recordings if available. A strong portfolio is essential for showcasing your abilities to potential clients or employers.
  • Take Orchestration Courses: Consider specialized orchestration courses or workshops, either in-person or online, to refine your technique and stay current with modern practices.
  • Join Professional Organizations: Get involved with organizations like the American Society of Music Arrangers and Composers (ASMAC) or the Society of Composers & Lyricists (SCL). These groups provide networking, resources, and professional support.
  • Attend Masterclasses: Participate in orchestration masterclasses led by experienced orchestrators or composers. These provide valuable feedback and deeper insights into the craft.
  • Explore Diverse Genres: Be open to orchestrating for classical music, film, theater, video games, or contemporary projects. Versatility broadens your opportunities and skill set.
  • Seek Mentorship: Whenever possible, learn directly from established orchestrators or composers. Guidance from experienced professionals can help you navigate the nuances of the field.

Helpful Resources
Aspiring orchestrators can take advantage of many resources to strengthen their skills, stay current with industry practices, and connect with professionals. Here are some valuable options:

  • Books on Orchestration: Classics like The Study of Orchestration by Samuel Adler or Principles of Orchestration by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov provide in-depth guidance on instrumentation and techniques.
  • Online Courses: Platforms like Berklee Online, Coursera, and Udemy offer courses in orchestration, composition, and music production.
  • Notation Software Tutorials: Official resources for Sibelius, Finale, and Dorico can help orchestrators master the tools used to prepare professional scores.
  • Professional Organizations: Groups such as the American Society of Music Arrangers and Composers (ASMAC) or the Society of Composers & Lyricists (SCL) offer networking, mentorship, and industry events.
  • Conferences and Workshops: Events like the NAMM Show or orchestration masterclasses provide opportunities to learn directly from experienced professionals.
  • Podcasts and YouTube Channels: Channels like Composer Magazine or Pensado’s Place often include discussions on orchestration, arranging, and scoring.
  • Score Libraries: Accessing public-domain orchestral scores (e.g., through IMSLP) allows orchestrators to study and analyze a wide variety of works.
  • Industry Magazines: Publications like Sound on Sound and Mix Magazine cover the latest tools, techniques, and trends in music production.