Writing Music for Production Libraries
by Annie Errez
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Review Writing Music for Production Libraries by Annie Errez
In today’s fast-changing world of music production, Annie Errez’s work serves as an essential guide for composers aiming to produce music for production libraries. Her insights demonstrate how musicians can successfully monetize their work across multiple media platforms such as podcasts, video games, commercials, and films. Writing music for production libraries goes beyond catchy melodies; it demands a deep understanding of this unique genre’s specific requirements. Errez stresses the importance of mastering both technical production skills and creative decision-making for those eager to enter this field.
Understanding Production Libraries and Their Unique Requirements
Library music differs significantly from traditional compositions, and Annie Errez highlights these critical distinctions. Unlike music intended for albums or concerts, production library tracks have a functional role—they are designed to support visual media seamlessly. Therefore, composers must produce adaptable music capable of conveying different moods and fitting a variety of contexts without overpowering the visual narrative.
Key Differences from Traditional Compositions
Functional Role: Traditional music tends to be personal and expressive, while library music serves a practical, background purpose.
Simplicity and Clarity: Tracks in production libraries are generally simpler to ensure they enhance visuals without clashing.
Style Versatility: The music should cover a broad spectrum of genres—from orchestral arrangements to modern pop—to suit diverse projects.
Errez emphasizes that composers need to develop both creative skills and the ability to produce universally usable music for various media applications.
Mastering Production Skills
According to Annie Errez, technical expertise in music production accounts for roughly 60-70% of success in the library music market. This underscores the necessity of having a well-equipped production setup and strong sound engineering skills.
Essential Elements of a Production Setup
| Equipment/Software | Importance |
|---|---|
| DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) | A stable DAW like Ableton Live is crucial for efficient composing and arranging. |
| Audio Interface | Ensures high-quality audio input/output, key for recording clarity. |
| Monitors | Reliable studio monitors help translate sound accurately across systems. |
| MIDI Controller | Facilitates creativity and workflow during composition. |
| Plugins & Virtual Instruments | Expand sound options with realistic instrument emulations and effects. |
While top-tier gear isn’t mandatory, achieving broadcast-level production quality is essential. Poor mixing, background noise, or amateurish sound design can damage a composer’s reputation. Focusing on clean, professional sound and realistic instrumentation elevates the final product.
Focusing on Production Quality
Errez advises producers to refine their mixing and mastering skills meticulously. Understanding how to use EQ, compression, and other audio processing tools is vital for meeting industry standards. Submissions that lack polish often get rejected by library music curators, making professional production quality indispensable.
Composition: Creating Music That Complements Visuals
Composition for production libraries is both creative and strategic. Errez advocates for simplicity in melody and arrangement to ensure tracks support visual content effectively without dominating it.
Characteristics of Successful Library Music
Simple Melodies: Use harmonious, straightforward motifs that provide a subtle emotional backdrop.
Usable Themes: Develop catchy and memorable ideas that editors can easily place in various projects.
Versatile Styles: Cover a range of genres while maintaining a balance to suit different media requirements.
By focusing on these attributes, composers can produce engaging tracks that enhance visual storytelling while maintaining the necessary subtlety.
Effective Pitching Strategies for Library Music
After building a portfolio, composers must connect with publishers to get their music placed. Errez stresses the importance of preparing a polished, versatile portfolio.
Building a Compelling Portfolio
Select 3-5 standout tracks that showcase your style range.
Ensure all tracks are professionally mixed and mastered.
Include clear metadata: genre, mood, instrumentation, and other relevant details.
Errez also points to services like Taxi, which simplify submitting to publishers and provide valuable feedback to improve future submissions.
Networking and Community Engagement
Being active in the library music community is crucial. Attending industry events, joining online groups, and participating in workshops can help composers build relationships, gain exposure, and discover collaboration opportunities that lead to more placements.
Financial Considerations: Understanding Earnings from Library Music
Financial sustainability in library music comes from various revenue sources. Errez explains how performance royalties and sync fees form the backbone of composer income.
Earning Through Royalties
Performance Royalties: Composers earn money each time their music is publicly broadcast, streamed, or played on radio.
Sync Fees: One-time payments made by producers to license tracks for media projects.
Understanding these income streams allows composers to make informed career decisions and optimize their earning potential.
The Importance of Persistence
The library music field is competitive and demands ongoing dedication. Errez highlights that consistent effort in creating high-quality tracks and actively engaging with the community is key to long-term success and growth.
Conclusion
Annie Errez offers a comprehensive roadmap for aspiring composers aiming to succeed in the production library music industry. By honing technical skills, crafting appropriate compositions, building effective portfolios, and navigating the financial landscape, musicians can establish a rewarding career. Embracing these guidelines while nurturing creativity paves the way for a fulfilling journey in library music.
Get Writing Music for Production Libraries by Annie Errez Digital download!
