Hiring a Composer for Your Film: 5 Things You Need to Know
No matter the budget—whether it’s an indie passion project or a big studio film—every filmmaker eventually faces the same step: hiring a composer. The difference usually comes down to the size of the pocketbook, not the process itself.
And while budgets may vary, the concerns are universal. Here are the five most important things to keep in mind when bringing a composer onto your project.
1. Chemistry Is Everything
Before talking contracts or fees, ask yourself: can I collaborate with this person?
Do you like their music samples and creative style?
Are they enthusiastic about your project?
Do you share a vision for the sound, tone, and intensity of the score?
Are you even in the same time zone—and does their working style align with yours?
A good composer/filmmaker relationship is built on trust, communication, and mutual excitement. If it’s not easy, your music supervisor can help with communication—but ideally, the composer feels like a true partner.
2. Define the Scope Up Front
How much music are you actually asking for? Nail this down early:
Will they deliver 30 minutes? 50 minutes?
If it’s an episodic project, how much per episode?
What instrumentation is expected—synth, strings, full orchestra, or hybrid?
The clearer the scope, the fewer surprises down the line.
3. Fee and Payment Structure
Most composers work on a flat fee. Payments are typically broken into installments:
A portion upfront.
Payments during the writing and production process.
A final payment at project lock.
Even if your budget is modest, being upfront about what you can afford sets the right tone and builds trust.
4. Schedule and Delivery
Music is one of the last creative elements added, but deadlines are still critical. Set a timeline for demos, revisions, and final delivery. A clear schedule keeps the project on track and avoids last-minute panic.
5. Rights & Ownership
This is where indie films and major studio projects diverge:
Independent films: Composers often retain publishing and master rights. You’ll have the right to use the music in your film (and sometimes in trailers) indefinitely. After a year or so, the rights may revert back to the composer, allowing them to re-use tracks elsewhere.
Studio/streamer projects: Companies like HBO or Netflix usually require full ownership of publishing and master rights. The composer keeps only the writer’s share, but most are happy with this arrangement since it comes with visibility and prestige.
Final Thoughts
Hiring a composer isn’t just about getting music—it’s about building a creative partnership that enhances your film. Nail down the relationship, the scope of work, the fee, the delivery schedule, and the rights from the start. Doing so will help you avoid headaches, stay on budget, and ensure your score supports the story you’re trying to tell.