Catalyst Story Institute asked me to host a 3-part series on music in film and TV, aimed at directors and producers. I talked with several talented Minnesotan guests, including Rick and Morty composer Ryan Elder and master orchestrator Robert Elhai, who has orchestrated around 200 films (Marvel movies, Batman movies, Alien movies, etc.).

Part 1: Making Music Decisions for Your Series

Topics include:

• Who do I approach first about music?
• How do I know when to use original composition vs existing music?
• What’s the best way to communicate ideas to a composer?

Part 2: Music Contracts for Every Production Budget

Topics include:

• What’s the process for licensing an existing song?
• What should be in a composer contract?
• Public domain and royalty-free music

Part 3: Working With a Composer to Score Your Series

Topics include:

• Composing for animations like Rick and Morty
• What should you think about when planning music for a series?
• Working with an orchestra
• What’s involved in a large-budget music production?