Essentials of Sync

by Brian Scally

 

1. Do your research
Start out with TV shows, films, games, and brands you like. What types of music were used in them. Find out who selected that music and try to develop a relationship with them. Pitch your own music if you have tracks that are relevant and appropriate.

2. Be specific when pitching your music
It’s OK to send unsolicited emails to agents/music supervisors, once you’re specific.
Don’t pitch more than a small selection of your music. Send a private streaming link, with options to download WAV files.
Outline what you liked on projects they’ve worked on and suggest a piece of your music that could work in a similar way, e.g., “I was blown away by the piece of music you put in that swimming pool scene, I think this track could work well in a similar spot.”
The projects a supervisor will have worked on will likely have the same artistic thread running throughout so this is an effective way of showing how relevant you are to what they’re doing.

3. Have lyrics, all metadata, and instrumental versions of your music all on the one link
Ideally you don’t want them having to ask you for any additional files or info.

4. Get in touch with up and coming directors/producers
Screen Ireland invests in films so become familiar with what they’re working on and absolutely get in touch with directors/producers re. placing your music in their works.

5. If you’re a composer, go to established film/TV composers
Ask to shadow them/support them. Perhaps you could compose small pieces for them as you start out.