Hello, fellow music makers! Welcome to another edition of the Media Composer Vault!
Let’s cut to the chase. We all want to get better at composing, right? Here are four actionable tips to help you level up your composing game. Let’s not waste any more time and dive in!
1. Compose (Duh!)
The best way to get better at composing is… composing! What do I mean by that though?
Many of us (me included) love to watch tutorials and how-to’s on how to get better at composing. Maybe it’s learning how to compose in a genre you love, or learning a new scale. watching videos on composing is great it’s just what happens after that can hinder us as composers.
Watching endless tutorials doesn’t count! Sure, learning new techniques or how to master a genre is great, but if you don’t put it into practice, it’s just another episode in your binge-watching saga.
What to do: After watching a tutorial, dive in and try it out immediately. Just learned how to craft a killer cinematic score? Get composing! Watching doesn’t make you a composer—doing does. Don’t let all that newfound knowledge gather dust.
Pro Tip: Tutorials are your appetiser; composing is the main course. Don’t skip the meal!
2. Collaborate Like a Pro
Here’s a hot take: I believe that collaboration is by far the most important aspect of being a composer. Collaboration is a goldmine for growth. It’s like adding a secret spice to your music. It’s the fastest way to grow as a composer because you’re tapping into someone else’s genius while sharing your own. It’s a win-win.
Why it works: There are things you’ll never discover on your own. And, let’s be real—creating art with others is just plain fun. Even if you’re an introvert (raising my hand here), take the leap. You’ll learn, grow, and make something amazing together.
Pro Tip: Think of collaboration as the ultimate jam session. Don’t miss out!
3. Learn From Others
Now, I know I said you shouldn’t spend ALL your time glued to videos and tutorials, but let’s not throw the baby out with the bathwater—learning is important! The real magic happens when you take what you’ve learned and put it into practice.
With so much content out there, it can feel overwhelming to figure out where to start. Don’t worry, though—I’ve got you covered. Below is a list of my favorite composers and content creators who’ve been absolute game-changers for me. They’ve taught me invaluable lessons about composing and helped me grow as a creator. They might be exactly what you’re looking for… or not, but hey, they’re worth checking out!
Here’s a list of top-notch resources to get you started:
- Zach Heyde: Composing tutorials and wisdom.
- Cheska Navarro: Marketing and social media for composers.
- Robert Rodriguez: Tips on thriving as a modern composer.
- Jonas Friedman: Advice on thriving as a composer in the industry.
- Marc Jovani: Orchestral composing, mixing, and mastering.
- Alvaro Rodriguez: Tutorials on diverse genres and realistic mockups.
Learn from these pros, then remember to put your new skills to the test.
4. Don’t Compose (Wait, What?!)
Taking breaks refreshes your mind and sparks inspiration. As discussed in a previous blog (you can read that blog here). Sometimes, the best way to improve is to step away from your computer. Seriously. Take a break, refresh your mind, and come back stronger. Whether it’s a walk, a hobby, or just doing something you love, stepping away can reignite your creative spark.
Pro Tip: Inspiration often strikes when you least expect it. Give your brain a breather, and watch the ideas flow.
5. Media Composer Vault (Yes, I’m plugging myself—but hear me out!)
Okay, shameless self-promotion moment… but for good reason! The Media Composer Vault isn’t just a vanity project—it’s a treasure trove of everything I wish I knew when I was starting out (and even years into my career).
Here’s the deal: I’ve spent countless hours banging my head against the wall, trying to figure out answers to tough questions. Now, instead of keeping all that hard-earned wisdom to myself, I’m sharing it with you. Why? Because I genuinely want to help you become the best composer you can be—minus the hair-pulling frustration I went through.
So, keep checking back in the Vault. I’m constantly pouring in new insights, tips, and experiences to help you dodge the pitfalls I fell into and climb your own composing ladder faster and smarter. Let’s grow together—because, hey, your success is my jam!
Conclusion
- Compose: Practice what you learn.
- Collaborate: Share ideas and grow with others.
- Learn: Use tutorials strategically and apply them.
- Don’t Compose: Take breaks to recharge and get inspired.
- Media Composer Vault
Got thoughts? Drop me an email—I’d love to hear them! If this post struck a chord, share it with a fellow composer. Let’s keep creating and inspiring each other.
Until next time, keep composing!
-Theo