Such a needed message right now, my vision of being a full time composer has shifted drastically over the years. I thought I just wanted to do huge shows and films all year round for a living, and while a piece of me still wants do projects like that, I primarily want to lead a life where art and expression is celebrated throughout my week. I don’t want to work the boring lifeless unfulfilling jobs, I want to be involved in something that feels revenant to not only my human experience but something that will bring fulfillment and belonging to myself and the people in my life (and possibly a future family). And who knows maybe I’ll do big projects in the future, idk but my goal is to live a more simple & quiet life whilst pursuing work that matters to me. That could be educating, RUclips, composing, sample libraries selling, performing. Preferably yes composing but who knows, I’m along for the ride! Just a note, Hans is also a guy who certainly encourages & works with people who have a different set of unique passions and skills. As humans I think we try to gravitate with what we think works in a career all the time but the truth is I believe there is a different road for each and every one of us. Thanks for making videos like these!
Fulfillment, belonging, living a simple and quiet life, and pursuing work that matters- those are all things that I care about too! I'm really happy to hear that you were able to make this realization for yourself and that you're not too caught up with what music related job titles will get you there. I definitely didn't expect to creating content to become a big part of how I get fulfillment and belonging, but it's the best kind of surprise! Also, thanks for pointing that out about Hans, you're definitely right about that and I think it's awesome how open he is collaborating with talented musicians. Anyways so happy to hear you enjoyed this, let's continue creating our own paths and have more great discussions like this!
I always wanted to be a full time composer and really put a lot of time into my creations and at some point I realised that I was losing the fun of the whole thing. It wasn't until I realised that I was putting too much pressure on myself to release new music and compose new music. I thought about whether I wanted to live my life like this and possibly get frustrated at some point because things weren't moving forward or whether I should change something and simply have a different mindset. I've now found the perfect balance between leisure time and composing. Composing is no longer my main job, but a side job that doesn't necessarily have to earn money. This allows me to compose much more freely and, above all, have fun. I love composing music, but you should also collect lots of impressions and great experiences, because these in turn inspire you to compose. Free time is a really important factor. Thank you for your video!
I love that! I am also striving to improve my leisure time and composing balance. Keeping it fun and protecting our relationship with music isn't something a lot of people think about, so I'm really happy to hear that you found what works for you. Thank you for sharing your perspective with us, and happy composing!
this is soooo true.. few years back i could only imagine living a sucessful life like big producers and composers but over the last few years i have come to realise what i really want is to keep making music forever and yeah financially comfortable ofcourse and gratefully i am in that space now. in this day and age where you success is somewhat determined by how many followers you have seems bogus to me. There is so much work in the music scene that you can do that can fulfill your desire and dream. I am not saying do not chase your big dreams but if you think about it you maybe in a situation today that your old self always dreamed about. so being grateful for what you have right now and keep doing what you love while living comfortably is a successful life to me.
Love this vid cuz i also believe that being dedicated to work is important but doing so at the cost of missing out on fun moments or family time is something that just doesn't feel like a fair trade-off. Great stuff! :)
Everyone talks about how important production skills and work organization are, but few mention how important life outside of composing is. It’s a valuable lesson. Thank you :)
It's funny that I just discovered your video (suggested by the RUclips algorithm). I was also asking myself all these questions. I learned music at a very young age, the piano, but I wasn't very good at playing but on the other hand I could hear pieces in my head; so I started taking composition lessons as soon as possible, before adolescence. And it lasted for years, in parallel with my school and university studies which I completed with a PhD in economics. I didn't choose a musical career, not knowing how to go about it and given the uncertainty of such a career (I wasn't entirely sure I was in tune with the world of composition at the time - the 90s - it was difficult for a composer with a rather "classical" background to earn a living in France and I wasn't sure that the constraints of the life of a professional composer having to run for a fee would suit me as well. And I wasn't sure I was talented enough to make a living from it. But more importantly: I wasn't sure I was capable of being "bankable" for a professional environment... and I didn't have the money to consider trying the experience. So I oriented my career elsewhere, and I applied myself very hard in order to quickly climb the ladder of my professional environment (thanks to my studies, I had already started from a relatively high position, but I had more pressure and I could only spend a little time composing, even if I was still "active"). I was still thinking about music, without knowing how to go about it. The big orchestral scores, as fun as they were to imagine and write, were a dead end for me (how to get them played by a real orchestra? And spending time with amateur orchestras exhausted me, I stopped very quickly). I didn't really know what to do anymore. But I still had music in me... and I was still composing... and more and more! About ten years ago, having reached the peak of my professional potential and now free of all professional pressure, I seriously got back into "intensive" composition. I'm having a double life for the last 10 years: being at work during the day and in front of my keyboard and my scores in the evenings, every evenings, and on weekends. Of course, I adapted my musical universe, I compose almost exclusively for piano, small "general public" pieces but that I really like to write, and on which I have encouraging feedback for those that I post on RUclips (people contact me, ask me for the scores - which I provide for free of course). And I collaborate with a wonderful pianist. I have absolutely no regrets, I have found my balance as a composer. And above all... I live the life of a real composer, the one I had always dreamed of, but without the constraints of a composer since I earn my living elsewhere, and I can compose what I like, what I want, without any time constraints (even if I write quickly)... nor artistic :)
Salut Philippe! It's amazing that you've been able to create your own version of a fulfilling life as a composer. I admire that a lot, thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences :)
Not enough people in our industry talk openly about this! People tend to only see the surface 'successes' and don't realise the immense amount of sacrifice one has to put in. I vaguely recall along over the years reading interviews/BTS of Hans and he mentioned regretting (kinda) missing out on his children's growing up years, I think at one point it made his marriage suffer too. I may be grossly mis-remembering it but like you said, we don't know what Hans went through as well and if you DO idolize Hans, remember his favourite quote 'the world doesn't need another Hans Zimmer, it needs the first you' :)
I think it is easier for me to talk about it as someone who entered the industry within the last 5 years and isn't working in Hollywood or big productions, but sacrifice was always on my mind. I'm glad to keep working on indie productions and freelancing if it means not sacrificing the things that are important to me. And I love that Hans said that!
When I was 13 and just starting out on my musical path I really wanted to be a film composer. However, back then, the late 70s we did not have all the tech and access to all the resources and opportunities that exist today and coming from an impoverished background I did not even have anything to play music on so that I could listen and learn. Home recording and video making were non existent. My dream was somewhat shelved. But I did go to art school, then studied Jazz arranging and composing and got round to writing music for several plays. It is great to see that such a career is no longer beyond those with the desire to go into it these days. I have not given up my interest but my objectives are different. I write and arrange songs focussing on non digital based approaches so I score on paper and write only for instruments I have access to in the real world. At the moment that is my voice (and harmonies) and guitars. I keep my writing minimal, but it is always composed within the scope of being able to expand it when I have the motivation or chance to use it for something. So basically I write for myself. It is also my leisure activity of sorts, though I have a regime of sitting down everyday at the same time to work. 5:30am and dedicate a minimum of 15 minutes to the activity before moving on to other musical tasks, though I will do more if I am in a flow state. I have plans to produce video footage to which I can add my own soundtracks, just for experimental purposes. I noticed Max Richter did something similar with some of his recent works. I could not be a jobbing composer, though the plays I wrote for did give me a set of requirements; compose character music, programatic music, melodies for lyrics etc and also some sound canvases for ambient effects. Thanks for sharing your progress. I just found your channel so I will watch your other videos and look forward to seeing how you get on.
Thank you for sharing your story! I've always wanted to hear from composers, like you, who are self-driven to write for themselves and make it work, but don't necessarily have the ideal starting point in time or life circumstances. It's honestly very inspiring that you've continued creating music for so long, because that's what I'd like to do with my life too. I also really like the idea of scoring on paper and limiting composing to the instruments I have, and experimenting more with art as well! Anyways, I hope that you find some value in the parts of my journey that I've documented. Thanks again for such a thoughtful comment! -Cheska
Hey Cheska.. I have been following you for a while.. even though I'm not a film composer, I enjoy your videos and your thoughts, especially.. I really liked your idea of being available to your friends and relatives without compromising on your dreams .. it can happen only when we know where we stand and till where we want to climb.. because on a long run satisfaction matters and not money or huge fanbase.. much love and support to you Cheska ❤❤
Cheska is one smart and well grounded young lady. Kudos from an old person who’s finding value in this young person’s thoughts. You’re never too old to learn new stuff.
Aww thanks Jeffrey!! I credit the good people in my life including family, friends, and teachers along with the books I read for shaping my outlook. We're all learning from each other here 😇
I dream big and never give up. My dream is to work with Hans Zimmer. I have been drawn to his music from a young age. I always wanted to listen to the movie soundtracks at a young age. A fulfilling life to me is living out your dreams. With hard work and persistence. You only live once! Great video though!!! I’m just determined!! ❤
@@cheska_yo yesss!!!! I am just not a good creator, I like to add my own spin to existing songs. I loved your video sooo much though!!! You are super inspiring!!!! Keep it up!!!
@@mandybredeweg-bishop4003 I can tell you really love music! I think it's just a matter of learning how to capture that passion in a way that helps people connect with you on RUclips. Creating content is a skill, just like all the music skills we've learned. Maybe I can talk about how to approach that as a musician in a future video? Anyways thanks for the support, I really appreciate it Mandy 🥰
Great point Cheska! Although I came to this conclusion myself, sometimes I think that my music is crap and that until I am a top composer I won't be able to get any collaborations (that's why I keep buying some books and looking for courses on the internet 😁😂)...I know that's not true and that everyone has their place under the sun and if the music I make is good enough for the director's criteria, then that's it - nothing more is needed. I don't really like the idea of a glamorous studio and that type of composing job, and I don't think I would feel comfortable in those conditions.
Totally relate to you, I don't like the idea of a glamorous studio and all that either haha 🤣 Also super guilty of buying courses instead of actually composing and connecting with people. At the end of the day, as long as we have fun and try to make our next piece better, that's all that matters!
Hi Cheska Thank you for your beautiful video ;-) I have dreamed for many years of being able to make a living from my music. I'm 58 now... But something inside me advised me to just start a side business as a composer for games, trailers, etc. A year ago, after 34 years in the industry (my main job), I quit my job and now work for friends in a small company. I have a much better quality of life because I no longer have to drive almost 2 hours to and from work, I have “different” stress and very nice colleagues. I have created a lot more freedom for my music, but I won't rely completely on the income from music. I fully share your thoughts on life, what good is a dream come true if it makes you unhappy afterwards ;-)
Hello hello! I'm so happy that this video resonated with you 🤗 Thank you for sharing your story, it makes me feel like I'm not alone in this way of thinking. The "different" stress you talk about is something I think about a lot recently, especially since I'm just starting out in the industry. Happy composing! ❤
Having had a measure of success in this field, I must say that this advice will not really work for many people. The truth is, when you get a job, you need to do it. period. and, yes, IT WILL INVOLVE SACRIFICE. There is no way around that. I wish you luck with your approach, and I will say now that I am not working in the biz anymore, I do have time for my dogs and my life. But, if you are lucky enough to get work, your schedule will be dictated by said work. Or you will not get work.
1. If you WANT to be famous as HZ you MUST forget about family, friends & everything not related to YOU and MUSIC. Yes, such life can kill you, but you should make a choice. 2. You MUST set a milestones to understand your grow in music production. You can idolize HZ if you like him or John Williams or anyone else. 3. If you can't do anything of point above - you're weak, you can't be a HZ. Focus on more realistic targets. 4. If you're watching this video or reading this comment - relax, you're never be famous. Stop torture yourself. Just do your hobbies when you have an expiration.
Such a needed message right now, my vision of being a full time composer has shifted drastically over the years. I thought I just wanted to do huge shows and films all year round for a living, and while a piece of me still wants do projects like that, I primarily want to lead a life where art and expression is celebrated throughout my week. I don’t want to work the boring lifeless unfulfilling jobs, I want to be involved in something that feels revenant to not only my human experience but something that will bring fulfillment and belonging to myself and the people in my life (and possibly a future family). And who knows maybe I’ll do big projects in the future, idk but my goal is to live a more simple & quiet life whilst pursuing work that matters to me. That could be educating, RUclips, composing, sample libraries selling, performing. Preferably yes composing but who knows, I’m along for the ride! Just a note, Hans is also a guy who certainly encourages & works with people who have a different set of unique passions and skills. As humans I think we try to gravitate with what we think works in a career all the time but the truth is I believe there is a different road for each and every one of us. Thanks for making videos like these!
Fulfillment, belonging, living a simple and quiet life, and pursuing work that matters- those are all things that I care about too! I'm really happy to hear that you were able to make this realization for yourself and that you're not too caught up with what music related job titles will get you there. I definitely didn't expect to creating content to become a big part of how I get fulfillment and belonging, but it's the best kind of surprise! Also, thanks for pointing that out about Hans, you're definitely right about that and I think it's awesome how open he is collaborating with talented musicians. Anyways so happy to hear you enjoyed this, let's continue creating our own paths and have more great discussions like this!
@@cheska_yo Agreed!
This is an EXCELLENT video Cheska - such valuable insights here 👏👏
Thanks Zach!!! 😁
Love this, Cheska! Thanks for making this video.
Glad you liked it Owen!
I always wanted to be a full time composer and really put a lot of time into my creations and at some point I realised that I was losing the fun of the whole thing. It wasn't until I realised that I was putting too much pressure on myself to release new music and compose new music. I thought about whether I wanted to live my life like this and possibly get frustrated at some point because things weren't moving forward or whether I should change something and simply have a different mindset. I've now found the perfect balance between leisure time and composing. Composing is no longer my main job, but a side job that doesn't necessarily have to earn money. This allows me to compose much more freely and, above all, have fun. I love composing music, but you should also collect lots of impressions and great experiences, because these in turn inspire you to compose. Free time is a really important factor. Thank you for your video!
I love that! I am also striving to improve my leisure time and composing balance. Keeping it fun and protecting our relationship with music isn't something a lot of people think about, so I'm really happy to hear that you found what works for you. Thank you for sharing your perspective with us, and happy composing!
this is soooo true.. few years back i could only imagine living a sucessful life like big producers and composers but over the last few years i have come to realise what i really want is to keep making music forever and yeah financially comfortable ofcourse and gratefully i am in that space now. in this day and age where you success is somewhat determined by how many followers you have seems bogus to me. There is so much work in the music scene that you can do that can fulfill your desire and dream. I am not saying do not chase your big dreams but if you think about it you maybe in a situation today that your old self always dreamed about. so being grateful for what you have right now and keep doing what you love while living comfortably is a successful life to me.
Thank you for this!
Of course ☺ I hope it inspires you to think more deeply about the kind of career you want
Love this vid cuz i also believe that being dedicated to work is important but doing so at the cost of missing out on fun moments or family time is something that just doesn't feel like a fair trade-off. Great stuff! :)
Glad you love it Adi!! Hopefully the Zimmer fan base responds well to this hahaha
Everyone talks about how important production skills and work organization are, but few mention how important life outside of composing is. It’s a valuable lesson. Thank you :)
So happy this resonated with you! :)
this channel makes me feel alright, welp subscribed!
Hooray!!
Great questions! Those are things everyone should consider. Thank you!
Glad it helps! :)
Everything you said in this video speaks to me so much! Thank you for making this :)
Glad you enjoyed, thanks for the support! :)
It's funny that I just discovered your video (suggested by the RUclips algorithm). I was also asking myself all these questions. I learned music at a very young age, the piano, but I wasn't very good at playing but on the other hand I could hear pieces in my head; so I started taking composition lessons as soon as possible, before adolescence. And it lasted for years, in parallel with my school and university studies which I completed with a PhD in economics. I didn't choose a musical career, not knowing how to go about it and given the uncertainty of such a career (I wasn't entirely sure I was in tune with the world of composition at the time - the 90s - it was difficult for a composer with a rather "classical" background to earn a living in France and I wasn't sure that the constraints of the life of a professional composer having to run for a fee would suit me as well. And I wasn't sure I was talented enough to make a living from it. But more importantly: I wasn't sure I was capable of being "bankable" for a professional environment... and I didn't have the money to consider trying the experience. So I oriented my career elsewhere, and I applied myself very hard in order to quickly climb the ladder of my professional environment (thanks to my studies, I had already started from a relatively high position, but I had more pressure and I could only spend a little time composing, even if I was still "active"). I was still thinking about music, without knowing how to go about it. The big orchestral scores, as fun as they were to imagine and write, were a dead end for me (how to get them played by a real orchestra? And spending time with amateur orchestras exhausted me, I stopped very quickly). I didn't really know what to do anymore. But I still had music in me... and I was still composing... and more and more! About ten years ago, having reached the peak of my professional potential and now free of all professional pressure, I seriously got back into "intensive" composition. I'm having a double life for the last 10 years: being at work during the day and in front of my keyboard and my scores in the evenings, every evenings, and on weekends. Of course, I adapted my musical universe, I compose almost exclusively for piano, small "general public" pieces but that I really like to write, and on which I have encouraging feedback for those that I post on RUclips (people contact me, ask me for the scores - which I provide for free of course). And I collaborate with a wonderful pianist. I have absolutely no regrets, I have found my balance as a composer. And above all... I live the life of a real composer, the one I had always dreamed of, but without the constraints of a composer since I earn my living elsewhere, and I can compose what I like, what I want, without any time constraints (even if I write quickly)... nor artistic :)
Salut Philippe! It's amazing that you've been able to create your own version of a fulfilling life as a composer. I admire that a lot, thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences :)
Not enough people in our industry talk openly about this! People tend to only see the surface 'successes' and don't realise the immense amount of sacrifice one has to put in. I vaguely recall along over the years reading interviews/BTS of Hans and he mentioned regretting (kinda) missing out on his children's growing up years, I think at one point it made his marriage suffer too. I may be grossly mis-remembering it but like you said, we don't know what Hans went through as well and if you DO idolize Hans, remember his favourite quote 'the world doesn't need another Hans Zimmer, it needs the first you' :)
I think it is easier for me to talk about it as someone who entered the industry within the last 5 years and isn't working in Hollywood or big productions, but sacrifice was always on my mind. I'm glad to keep working on indie productions and freelancing if it means not sacrificing the things that are important to me. And I love that Hans said that!
It applies to every career I guess, well said. Thanks.
You are definitely right, it does apply to every career- I'm glad you found it helpful!
Excellent video!
Sachi!!! Thank you so much 🤗 P.S. Hope you're well, it's good to hear from you!
When I was 13 and just starting out on my musical path I really wanted to be a film composer. However, back then, the late 70s we did not have all the tech and access to all the resources and opportunities that exist today and coming from an impoverished background I did not even have anything to play music on so that I could listen and learn. Home recording and video making were non existent.
My dream was somewhat shelved. But I did go to art school, then studied Jazz arranging and composing and got round to writing music for several plays. It is great to see that such a career is no longer beyond those with the desire to go into it these days. I have not given up my interest but my objectives are different. I write and arrange songs focussing on non digital based approaches so I score on paper and write only for instruments I have access to in the real world. At the moment that is my voice (and harmonies) and guitars. I keep my writing minimal, but it is always composed within the scope of being able to expand it when I have the motivation or chance to use it for something.
So basically I write for myself. It is also my leisure activity of sorts, though I have a regime of sitting down everyday at the same time to work. 5:30am and dedicate a minimum of 15 minutes to the activity before moving on to other musical tasks, though I will do more if I am in a flow state. I have plans to produce video footage to which I can add my own soundtracks, just for experimental purposes. I noticed Max Richter did something similar with some of his recent works. I could not be a jobbing composer, though the plays I wrote for did give me a set of requirements; compose character music, programatic music, melodies for lyrics etc and also some sound canvases for ambient effects.
Thanks for sharing your progress. I just found your channel so I will watch your other videos and look forward to seeing how you get on.
Thank you for sharing your story! I've always wanted to hear from composers, like you, who are self-driven to write for themselves and make it work, but don't necessarily have the ideal starting point in time or life circumstances. It's honestly very inspiring that you've continued creating music for so long, because that's what I'd like to do with my life too.
I also really like the idea of scoring on paper and limiting composing to the instruments I have, and experimenting more with art as well!
Anyways, I hope that you find some value in the parts of my journey that I've documented. Thanks again for such a thoughtful comment!
-Cheska
Hey Cheska.. I have been following you for a while.. even though I'm not a film composer, I enjoy your videos and your thoughts, especially.. I really liked your idea of being available to your friends and relatives without compromising on your dreams .. it can happen only when we know where we stand and till where we want to climb.. because on a long run satisfaction matters and not money or huge fanbase.. much love and support to you Cheska ❤❤
I'm happy to hear you found your way to my channel
Cheska is one smart and well grounded young lady. Kudos from an old person who’s finding value in this young person’s thoughts. You’re never too old to learn new stuff.
Aww thanks Jeffrey!! I credit the good people in my life including family, friends, and teachers along with the books I read for shaping my outlook. We're all learning from each other here 😇
Well daaah.. Of course you have to make your own carear!
I dream big and never give up. My dream is to work with Hans Zimmer. I have been drawn to his music from a young age. I always wanted to listen to the movie soundtracks at a young age. A fulfilling life to me is living out your dreams. With hard work and persistence. You only live once! Great video though!!! I’m just determined!! ❤
Totally valid, I love that! If you're going to work hard for something, it should be for something you love 🤗
@@cheska_yo yesss!!!! I am just not a good creator, I like to add my own spin to existing songs. I loved your video sooo much though!!! You are super inspiring!!!! Keep it up!!!
@@mandybredeweg-bishop4003 I can tell you really love music! I think it's just a matter of learning how to capture that passion in a way that helps people connect with you on RUclips. Creating content is a skill, just like all the music skills we've learned. Maybe I can talk about how to approach that as a musician in a future video? Anyways thanks for the support, I really appreciate it Mandy 🥰
Great point Cheska! Although I came to this conclusion myself, sometimes I think that my music is crap and that until I am a top composer I won't be able to get any collaborations (that's why I keep buying some books and looking for courses on the internet 😁😂)...I know that's not true and that everyone has their place under the sun and if the music I make is good enough for the director's criteria, then that's it - nothing more is needed. I don't really like the idea of a glamorous studio and that type of composing job, and I don't think I would feel comfortable in those conditions.
Totally relate to you, I don't like the idea of a glamorous studio and all that either haha 🤣 Also super guilty of buying courses instead of actually composing and connecting with people. At the end of the day, as long as we have fun and try to make our next piece better, that's all that matters!
@@cheska_yo That's right! 🙂
Hi Cheska
Thank you for your beautiful video ;-) I have dreamed for many years of being able to make a living from my music. I'm 58 now... But something inside me advised me to just start a side business as a composer for games, trailers, etc. A year ago, after 34 years in the industry (my main job), I quit my job and now work for friends in a small company. I have a much better quality of life because I no longer have to drive almost 2 hours to and from work, I have “different” stress and very nice colleagues. I have created a lot more freedom for my music, but I won't rely completely on the income from music.
I fully share your thoughts on life, what good is a dream come true if it makes you unhappy afterwards ;-)
Hello hello! I'm so happy that this video resonated with you 🤗 Thank you for sharing your story, it makes me feel like I'm not alone in this way of thinking. The "different" stress you talk about is something I think about a lot recently, especially since I'm just starting out in the industry. Happy composing! ❤
@@cheska_yo ❤
Having had a measure of success in this field, I must say that this advice will not really work for many people. The truth is, when you get a job, you need to do it. period. and, yes, IT WILL INVOLVE SACRIFICE. There is no way around that. I wish you luck with your approach, and I will say now that I am not working in the biz anymore, I do have time for my dogs and my life. But, if you are lucky enough to get work, your schedule will be dictated by said work. Or you will not get work.
1. If you WANT to be famous as HZ you MUST forget about family, friends & everything not related to YOU and MUSIC. Yes, such life can kill you, but you should make a choice.
2. You MUST set a milestones to understand your grow in music production. You can idolize HZ if you like him or John Williams or anyone else.
3. If you can't do anything of point above - you're weak, you can't be a HZ. Focus on more realistic targets.
4. If you're watching this video or reading this comment - relax, you're never be famous. Stop torture yourself. Just do your hobbies when you have an expiration.
Non 👏 Negotiables 👏
YUP 🙌
Hans Zimmer fucking blows anyway.
😂