Scenes+Sessions: Stories By Music Podcast

In this episode, we delve into how entrepreneurs and creatives are applying the Blue Ocean Strategy to establish distinct identities. Xavier discusses composer influences and setting standards. Jonny shares how branding himself as a non-traditional music tutor catering to neurodivergent learners keeps him distinct. Sam discusses niching into motion picture advertising, turning his passion into a specialised business, while Chiron explains how focusing on TV music production creates less competition and more quality opportunities. We also explore legendary examples like Hans Zimmer’s innovative sound revolution and Ennio Morricone’s strategic instrument choices that transformed Western film music.Timestamps:00:00:00 Preview and opening titles00:01:40 Introducing the Blue Ocean Strategy for composers00:03:21 Jonny’s approach to non-traditional music teaching00:05:06 Communicating your difference through marketing00:07:13 Why saying no can strengthen your career00:09:23 The wine-industry example: creating a new audience00:11:04 Sam on specialising in trailer and cinematic music00:17:10 Chiron on TV music, electronic styles, and following trends00:20:07 When to start defining your niche00:22:01 Craft, growth, and avoiding the copycat trap00:25:23 Finding opportunities in emerging markets and social media00:27:42 Advice for discovering your own creative lane00:33:57 Refinement over reinvention00:38:49 Innovation in film music: Morricone, techno, and unexpected influences00:41:38 Study the influences behind your influences00:48:56 The principles behind creating new value00:49:37 How early should you apply a niche strategy?00:51:34 Why quality and emotional context matter more than novelty00:54:12 Finding your niche through experience and client feedback00:58:13 Should film music stand alone or serve the picture first?01:03:12 Favourite film scores and what makes them work01:05:56 Ennio Morricone: purpose, originality, and bold choices01:09:58 Craft versus assembling familiar sounds01:11:33 Turning limitations into creative strengths01:14:23 Final takeaways: refine your voice and make your own spaceKey Topics:The fundamentals of the Blue Ocean Strategy—red versus blue oceansHow niche marketing can avoid saturated markets in film scoring and music educationSpecific examples of successful niche positioning, including Hans Zimmer, Ennio Morricone, and social media music trendsTips for building your unique selling point early in your careerThe importance of authentic passion and craft over copying trends or stylesHow to adapt your brand through innovation and specialisationThe role of influence, context, and continuous refinement in creative workOvercoming self-doubt by embracing flaws and unique qualitiesHow to leverage style and sound design as differentiatorsThe significance of emotional support and supporting the narrative through musicResources & Links:Blue Ocean Strategy by W. Chan Kim & Renée Mauborgnehttps://www.blueoceanstrategy.com/books/blue-ocean-strategy-book/Scenes+Sessions Hub:https://www.scenesandsessions.comhttps://open.spotify.com/show/2Fp0S7EvYOrh1bbuBCJkTahttps://www.facebook.com/ScenesSessionsHubhttps://www.instagram.com/scenessessionshubhttps://www.tiktok.com/@scenessessionshubConnect with the Hosts:Xavier Lo - https://www.xavierlomusic.comChiron Farrimond - https://www.chirontobiasfarrimond.comSam Griffiths - https://www.samgriffithsmusic.com/Jonathan Worsley - https://www.jonathanworsley.co.uk/Remember: Whether you're a composer, educator, or creator, early strategic positioning, authentic self-expression, and continuous refinement are essential to thrive in a competitive industry. The keys are niche focus, innovation, and leveraging your unique strengths.

In this episode, we explore the nuanced perspectives on working for free, especially in the early stages of a creative career. Co-hosts Xavier Lo, Chiron Farrimond, Jonathan Worsley, and Sam Griffiths debate when it’s beneficial, how to protect yourself, and the importance of valuing your work.Timestamps:00:00:00 Preview and opening titles00:01:34 Introduction: Is working for free fair or exploitative?00:02:40 Jonny’s view: working for free is essential for beginners00:03:58 When unpaid work becomes problematic00:06:01 Chiron’s experiences: unbalanced expectations and benefits of volunteering00:08:50 Exploitation scenarios when work is expected for free00:10:56 Being selective and setting rules for unpaid work00:13:00 The importance of knowing your worth and walking away00:15:21 Sending discounted invoices as a tool to value your work00:18:00 Warning signs like "exposure" terms and false promises00:19:58 When project budgets exist but expectations are unfair00:24:03 Clear communication, boundaries, and written contracts00:28:18 The importance of projecting your value through pricing00:30:04 Overcoming imposter syndrome and emphasising effort00:31:48 Mentally preparing for the transition from unpaid to paid work00:37:57 Building trust with directors and collaborative relationships00:39:07 Saying no diplomatically to protect your energy00:47:49 The significance of experience, luck, and persistence in growth00:55:02 Cost estimations and project-based pricing strategies00:56:46 Avoiding controversy: fair pricing and industry standards00:57:50 The necessity of written agreements to avoid future disputes01:04:16 Final thoughts: balancing passion, self-worth, and practical industry insightsKey Topics:The dual nature of unpaid work for gaining experience and building a portfolioWhen working for free turns into exploitation, and how to identify warning signsStrategic rules for early-career professionals: scope, quality, effort, exit strategies, and valuing oneselfThe importance of contracts and clear boundaries to avoid being taken advantage ofTransitioning from unpaid to paid work: when and how to recognise the right timingThe impact of market perceptions and industry norms on the value of creative workPractical tips on pricing, workflow, and choosing the right projectsHow passion and self-belief influence career development in the music and film industriesReal-life stories of industry veterans about their turning pointsResources & Links:Scenes+Sessions Hub:https://www.scenesandsessions.comhttps://open.spotify.com/show/2Fp0S7EvYOrh1bbuBCJkTahttps://www.facebook.com/ScenesSessionsHubhttps://www.instagram.com/scenessessionshubhttps://www.tiktok.com/@scenessessionshubConnect with Our Hosts:Xavier Lo - https://www.xavierlomusic.comChiron Farrimond - https://www.chirontobiasfarrimond.comSam Griffiths - https://www.samgriffithsmusic.com/Jonathan Worsley - https://www.jonathanworsley.co.uk/Note: Remember, valuing your work and setting healthy boundaries are crucial in building a sustainable and fulfilling career. Stay passionate, be strategic, and don’t be afraid to walk away when necessary.

Are you a composer or musician looking to maximise your earnings and protect your work? This episode dives into the nuanced world of royalties, rights, and contracts that every creator should understand. From performance royalties to sync fees and legal considerations, learn what it takes to navigate the industry effectively.Timestamps:00:00:00 Preview and opening titles00:01:13 Welcome and episode overview: understanding untapped royalty streams00:03:27 Explanation of performance, mechanical, neighbouring, and sync royalties00:09:22 The role of music supervisors and legal agreements in collaborations00:13:55 What is synchronisation (sync), and how sync fees vary depending on usage00:16:37 How to calculate sync fees and negotiate for different media types00:19:07 The importance of registering works and the use of tools like Content ID00:20:57 Protecting rights: copyright duration, public domain, and international laws00:23:37 PROs in the UK and US: PRS, MCPS, BMI, SOCAN, and how they operate internationally00:26:33 Strategies for self-publishing and registering works through agencies or companies like Song Trust00:32:02 The significance of joining PROs early to claim unclaimed royalties and avoid missed income00:34:20 Legal considerations: copyright laws in the UK and US, and the importance of registering works00:39:48 Negotiating royalty shares in film and production music, including splits and contracts00:42:14 How budget level influences royalty negotiations and rights retention00:46:33 When and why to involve legal advice in larger projects or Hollywood-scale work00:55:31 The potential for soundtrack releases and related royalties in gaming01:01:35 Software and tools for game music programming: Wwise, FMOD, Unity, Unreal01:06:51 The importance of clear agreements when collaborating with friends or partners01:08:19 Summary: key takeaway points for maximising and protecting your royalties01:09:55 Final advice: start early, understand your rights, and negotiate wiselyKey Topics:Different types of royalties: performance, mechanical, neighbouring, sync, printHow royalties are collected and managed globally, PROs and licensing agenciesThe importance of contracts and negotiations in collaborations and performancesHow royalties differ across media: film, TV, video games, and live performancesThe legal framework around copyright duration, public domain, and international variationsPractical tips for self-publishing, registering works, and tracking usageBest practices for negotiating publishing and royalty splits at various career stagesResources & Links:PRS for Music (UK) - https://www.prsformusic.com/SoundMouse (Tracking technology) - https://www.soundmouse.com/TuneSat (Usage tracking) - https://tunesat.com/Song Trust (Self-publishing management) - https://www.songtrust.com/Wwise (Game Audio Software) - https://www.audiokinetic.com/en/wwise/Scenes+Sessions Hub:https://www.scenesandsessions.comhttps://open.spotify.com/show/2Fp0S7EvYOrh1bbuBCJkTahttps://www.facebook.com/ScenesSessionsHubhttps://www.instagram.com/scenessessionshubhttps://www.tiktok.com/@scenessessionshubConnect with Our Hosts:Xavier Lo - https://www.xavierlomusic.comChiron Farrimond - https://www.chirontobiasfarrimond.comSam Griffiths - https://www.samgriffithsmusic.com/Jonathan Worsley - https://www.jonathanworsley.co.uk/Legal and copyright tips:Always get clear, written contracts before collaboratingRegister works early with PROs and use tracking toolsUnderstand your country's copyright duration and the public domain rulesNegotiate royalty splits transparently and avoid ambiguityRecognise when to involve legal experts for larger dealsBy mastering these principles, creators can secure rightful earnings and safeguard their intellectual property in an increasingly complex media landscape.

In this episode, co-hosts Xavier, Sam, Chiron, and Jonny delve into the essentials for kickstarting and sustaining a career in music, emphasising the importance of a strong portfolio, authentic networking, and proper valuation of your work. Whether you're an aspiring composer or a seasoned professional, uncover actionable strategies to navigate industry challenges and foster meaningful connections.Timestamps00:00 Preview and opening titles01:20 Introduction: Episode overview on career essentials for musicians03:50 How to build a portfolio from scratch with self-produced tracks07:32 Organising your portfolio: separating concert, film, and popular music works10:27 Showcasing your work online: websites versus social media platforms and licensing constraints14:04 Networking tips: in real life and virtual environments, focusing on authenticity over transactions17:50 Personal hygiene and presentation at networking events: essential yet overlooked details22:12 Developing a genuine musical voice and embracing imperfections for authenticity27:52 The importance of patience, perseverance, and managing expectations in a long-term career33:26 How to price your services: avoiding underbidding and including revision clauses38:04 Handling rejection and maintaining resilience during setbacks46:58 Mental mindset tips for starting in a competitive industry51:51 Cultivating continuous learning and critical thinking in your career journey55:40 Episode wrap-up: key takeaways and upcoming topics on PROs and royaltiesKey Topics:How to create a compelling portfolio without initial clients, including self-initiated projectsBest practices for online showcasing: websites, SoundCloud, ReelCrafter, and licensing considerationsThe significance of authentic networking, building genuine relationships, and avoiding a transactional mindsetPricing strategies: valuing your work appropriately, understanding client budgets, avoiding under-pricing, and including revision clausesManaging rejection, setbacks, and the long-term mindset for sustained growthBalancing work and life, work culture, and the importance of patience in industry successResources & LinksThe Go Giver Book - on the power of authenticity and giving in successhttps://www.amazon.co.uk/Go-Giver-Little-Story-Powerful-Business/dp/B09MKTQTV1ReelCrafter - platform for presenting your music professionallyhttps://www.reelcrafter.com/SoundCloud - social platform for sharing music (note licensing considerations)https://www.soundcloud.com/Scenes+Sessions Hub:https://www.scenesandsessions.comhttps://open.spotify.com/show/2Fp0S7EvYOrh1bbuBCJkTahttps://www.facebook.com/ScenesSessionsHubhttps://www.instagram.com/scenessessionshubhttps://www.tiktok.com/@scenessessionshubConnect with the Hosts:Xavier Lo - https://www.xavierlomusic.comChiron Farrimond - https://www.chirontobiasfarrimond.comSam Griffiths - https://www.samgriffithsmusic.com/Jonathan Worsley - https://www.jonathanworsley.co.uk/

In this episode, we delve into the essential tools for music production, including DAWs, sample libraries, and hardware. Whether you're starting out or upgrading your setup, get insights on the best options tailored to your industry and workflow.Timestamps:00:00:00 Preview and opening titles00:01:21 Introduction to episode and focus on physical tools00:03:03 Importance of choosing a DAW tailored to your OS and workflow00:05:35 Using notation software like Sibelius alongside Pro Tools00:10:21 Choosing DAWs based on industry (film, sound design, production music)00:15:03 Notation-focused DAWs: Dorico vs. Sibelius00:16:54 Industry standards for plugins and licensing considerations00:20:29 Sample library choices: free options and investing in Kontakt00:23:31 Recommended libraries for starting orchestral and hybrid scores00:27:53 Focus on trailer and campaign music: orchestral and synthesiser plugins00:30:33 Must-have sample libraries for authentic acoustic and orchestral sounds00:33:18 Mixing plugins: Neutron, Ozone, Reverb, and workflow integration00:39:43 Hardware setup: Computers—specs, storage, and upgrade strategies00:44:08 Handling noise and fans in studio setups00:44:27 Working with laptops: portability vs. power00:48:39 Upgrading your system gradually: start with existing hardware00:51:18 Hardware considerations for audio interfaces and reliable sound cards01:01:51 Chiron's perspective on PC builds and hardware choices01:06:51 The importance of reference listening and familiarising with your gear01:08:06 MIDI keyboards: Choosing the right feel, performance, and expressiveness01:13:58 Summarising key gear choices and best practices for new composers01:15:09 Closing remarks and teaser for the next episodeKey Topics:Optimal DAWs for beginners and professionals (Logic Pro, Cubase, Reaper, Dorico)Sample libraries: free vs. paid, best practices for orchestral and trailer musicHardware essentials: computers, audio interfaces, headphones, MIDI controllersStorage solutions: external drives, cloud backup, and maintenance tipsTips for choosing equipment based on your specific music production needsResources & Links:Native Instruments Kontakt: https://www.native-instruments.com/en/products/komplete/samplers/kontakt-8/Spectrasonics Omnisphere: https://www.spectrasonics.net/products/omnisphere/overview.phpEast West Quantum Leap Libraries: https://www.soundsonline.com/iZotope: https://www.izotope.com/FabFilter: https://www.fabfilter.com/Reaper DAW: https://www.reaper.fm/Dorico by Steinberg: https://www.steinberg.net/dorico/Macrium Reflect (Backup): https://www.macrium.com/Focusrite Scarlett Interfaces: https://focusrite.com/scarlettScenes+Sessions Hub:https://www.scenesandsessions.comhttps://www.facebook.com/ScenesSessionsHubhttps://www.instagram.com/scenessessionshubhttps://www.tiktok.com/@scenessessionshubConnect with the Hosts:Xavier Lo - https://www.xavierlomusic.comChiron Farrimond - https://www.chirontobiasfarrimond.comSam Griffiths - https://www.samgriffithsmusic.com/Jonathan Worsley - https://www.jonathanworsley.co.uk/

In this pilot episode of Scenes and Sessions, composers and co-hosts Xavier Lo, Chiron Farrimond, Jonathan Worsley and Sam Griffiths share their journeys, experiences, and advice on navigating the world of film and media music. Whether you're a student, emerging composer, or simply a music enthusiast, discover practical tips, industry nuances, and the importance of continuous learning.Timestamps:00:00 Preview and opening titles01:39 Introduction to Scenes and Sessions: Why film music matters02:06 The hosts’ backgrounds and career journeys02:41 Chiron Farrimond on transitioning from university to industry05:07 What draws composers to film and media music06:22 Sam Griffiths on his trailer and TV scoring career09:31 Jonathan Worsley on orchestration, theory, and its relevance to film scoring11:35 The importance of a solid understanding of orchestration in film music13:46 Inspiration from iconic composers like John Williams14:41 The rough road of learning on the job and auditioning your skills16:52 The power of mixing influences from classical, pop, and experimental music19:43 The gap between academic training and industry realities21:56 The disciplined path of mastering orchestration like John Williams25:39 The role of practical experience and self-initiated projects27:58 Learning about sound recording, acousmatic music, and microphone techniques30:03 The necessity of ongoing practice, networking, and industry navigation32:18 Adapting to technological changes and evolving industry standards34:22 Mentorship, workshops, and local/national orchestral opportunities38:17 The value of Scenes+Sessions as a practical learning platform41:46 Feedback, live performance, and the benefits of real-time musician collaboration47:35 Learning from experience: the importance of patience, preparation, and understanding physics51:59 Giving back: educating the next generation of composers53:05 Introducing coaching packages tailored for upcoming composers55:39 Maintaining a passion for music regardless of industry hurdles58:29 Connecting through social media: Scenes+Sessions Hub58:51 Future episodes and closing remarksKey Topics:The diverse paths into film and media composition, from education to real-world experienceThe significance of practical skills: orchestration, studio recording, and live sessionsChallenges faced by emerging composers, including industry expectations and financial realitiesThe value of mentorship, live feedback, and hands-on projects like Scenes and SessionsBuilding a sustainable career: balancing creativity, technical skills, and business acumenThe importance of networking, collaboration, and self-education beyond universityResources & Links:Scenes+Sessions Hub:https://scenesandsessions.comhttps://www.facebook.com/ScenesSessionsHubhttps://www.instagram.com/scenessessionshubhttps://www.tiktok.com/@scenessessionshubConnect with Our Hosts:Xavier Lo - https://www.xavierlomusic.comChiron Farrimond - https://www.chirontobiasfarrimond.comSam Griffiths - https://www.samgriffithsmusic.com/Jonathan Worsley - https://www.jonathanworsley.co.uk/