How to Pitch Your Music as a Composer

By -Alice Fossett
Posted on December 5, 2024
Posted in Composer

As a composer, one of the most crucial skills you need to master is the art of pitching your music. Whether you’re aiming for a record label, film director, music supervisor, or publisher, effectively presenting your music can open doors to new opportunities. But how do you stand out in a crowded market? How do you ensure that your music catches the attention of the right people? In this guide, we’ll take you through the essential steps for pitching your music as a composer, helping you craft a compelling pitch that gets results.

1. Understand Your Target Audience

Before you start sending out your compositions, it’s important to identify who your audience is. Who do you want to pitch your music to? Do some research to ensure you’re reaching out to the right people.

Key Target Audiences for Composers:

Music Supervisors: These individuals select music for TV shows, films, and commercials. If your music fits a particular scene or genre, pitching to a music supervisor is ideal.
Record Labels: If you’re writing music for an album or have a unique sound, a record label could be interested in signing you as an artist.
Film and Game Directors: If you specialize in scoring for film, television, or video games, directors and producers are your go-to contacts.
Publishers: Music publishers handle licensing and royalties for composers, so if you want to monetize your music more effectively, pitching to a publisher is a smart choice.
Music Libraries: Many composers create stock music for licensing. Music libraries often need a variety of tracks for films, advertisements, or video content.

By narrowing your focus, you can tailor your pitch to resonate with each specific audience.

2. Build a Strong Portfolio

A strong portfolio is your calling card as a composer. It showcases your range, talent, and professionalism. When pitching your music, a well-organized and easily accessible portfolio can make all the difference.

Essential Elements of a Composer’s Portfolio:

Demo Reel: Your demo reel should be a 2-3 minute clip of your best work. It should include snippets from different pieces to showcase your range (e.g., orchestral music, electronic, cinematic, etc.).
Track Record: Include your past compositions or projects. If you’ve scored films, produced songs, or worked on music for commercials, highlight these experiences.
Website: Having an online presence with a personal website where you can upload your portfolio, biography, and contact information is essential.

Music Licensing and Credits: If your music has been used in TV shows, films, or advertisements, mention those credits. Music supervisors and labels will be more likely to consider you if you have a proven track record.

Make sure that your portfolio is easy to navigate and allows potential clients to quickly listen to your best work.

3. Craft the Perfect Pitch

When it comes to pitching your music, you need to be clear, concise, and professional. Whether you’re emailing a music supervisor or submitting to a label, your pitch email should highlight why your music is a great fit for their needs.

Steps for Crafting a Winning Pitch:

Subject Line: The subject line is the first thing the recipient will see. Keep it brief, clear, and to the point. For example: “Film Score Submission: [Song Title] for [Film/TV Show Name]” or “Music Pitch for Upcoming [Genre] Project”.
Personalization: Tailor your email to the recipient. Mention any mutual connections, why you think your music suits their project, or how you discovered their work.
Brief Introduction: In the first few sentences, introduce yourself. Include your name, the type of composer you are (e.g., film, classical, electronic), and a brief overview of your style.
Highlight Your Music: Provide links to your portfolio, demo reel, or specific tracks you’re pitching. Use streaming platforms like SoundCloud or Dropbox for easy access.
Why Your Music is a Fit: Explain why your composition suits their project or needs. Be specific—describe the genre, mood, or energy of your music and how it aligns with their vision.
Call to Action: End your pitch with a call to action. Invite them to listen to your tracks or schedule a meeting to discuss further. For example, “I would love to discuss how my music could fit into your project. Please let me know if you’re interested in hearing more!”

4. Use Professional Platforms

In today’s digital age, there are several platforms that can help composers pitch their music more effectively.

Top Platforms for Pitching Your Music:

SoundCloud: A popular platform for music discovery. You can upload your tracks and share them directly with industry professionals.
Film Music Networks: Websites like Film Music Network allow composers to connect with music supervisors and directors looking for film scores.
SubmitHub: SubmitHub is a platform where you can pitch your music to bloggers, labels, and playlisters directly.
Music Libraries: Services like AudioJungle, Epidemic Sound, and Artlist allow you to submit tracks for licensing, which can be used in film, TV, and online media.
LinkedIn: LinkedIn can help you connect with professionals in the music industry, whether you’re looking to pitch your music to music supervisors or network with other composers.

Make sure to follow the submission guidelines of each platform and maintain a professional presence.

5. Network with Industry Professionals

Networking is one of the most important aspects of being a successful composer. The more people who hear your music, the more opportunities you’ll have. Attend music conferences, join online forums, and collaborate with other musicians. Build relationships with people who can help get your music heard by a wider audience.

Networking Tips:

Attend Industry Events: Participate in composer meetups, film festivals, and music industry events to connect with potential clients.
Collaborate with Other Musicians: Collaboration is an excellent way to expand your reach and gain exposure.
Use Social Media: Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter are great for showcasing your work and connecting with industry professionals.

6. Follow Up Professionally

After sending your initial pitch, don’t be discouraged if you don’t hear back immediately. It’s important to follow up, but do so professionally and with patience.

Follow-Up Tips:

Give It Time: Wait at least 1-2 weeks before sending a follow-up email. Keep it polite and concise.
Be Respectful: Don’t overdo it with multiple follow-ups. A respectful reminder is enough.
Reaffirm Your Interest: Reiterate why you believe your music would be a good fit for their project and invite them to listen again.

Conclusion

Pitching your music as a composer can be daunting, but with the right approach, you can make your work stand out and open doors to new opportunities. By understanding your target audience, building a solid portfolio, crafting a professional pitch, and networking effectively, you’ll be on your way to securing meaningful connections and successful collaborations. Don’t forget to remain patient, persistent, and passionate about your music—it’s your unique sound that will ultimately make the difference.