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Composing a Living is a practical guide for composers navigating the business side of their careers. Through expert insights and interviews with successful composers, this book debunks the myth that making a living as a music creator is impossible. Covering income strategies, contracts, copyright, and more, it equips musicians with the necessary tools to build a financially sustainable career. With actionable advice on freelancing, self-driven projects, and maximizing income,
Composing a Living empowers music creators to take control of their work, earnings, and artistic future.
List of contents
- Introduction: Composing a Career
- Chapter 1: Starting to Start
- Chapter 2: Building Relationships
- Chapter 3: Cultivating a Successful Mindset
- Chapter 4: Goals and Economics: A Strategic Balance
- Chapter 5: Establishing a Strong Foundation
- Chapter 6: Pricing Your Work
- Chapter 7: Diversifying Income Streams
- Chapter 8: Assembling Your Team
- Chapter 9: Transitioning to 100 Percent Freelance Composing
- Chapter 10: Navigating Copyright, Contracts, and Legal Basics
- Chapter 11: Accounting Fundamentals and Incorporating Your Business
- Chapter 12: Preparing for Long-Term Financial Goals
- Conclusion: Creating, Growing, and Moving Forward
- Acknowledgments
About the author
Brandon Elliott is a conductor, educator, and consultant specializing in creative and strategic leadership in the arts and entertainment industry. He is a Professor of Music at Saddleback College and Founder & Artistic Director of Choral Arts Initiative, an award-winning ensemble dedicated to contemporary choral music. A sought-after consultant, he advises on artist management, career development, and the evolving music industry.
Dale Trumbore is a composer and writer whose music has been called "devastatingly beautiful" (
The Washington Post) and praised for its "soaring melodies" (
The New York Times). Her compositions have been performed by ensembles including Conspirare, Los Angeles Master Chorale, National Youth Choir of Scotland, and the Pasadena Symphony. She is the author of
Staying Composed.
