"How I Got To L.A." - Ep. 3

Taking an orchestration course can be both exhilarating and daunting, especially when you’re stepping into the professional world of film scoring. From my own experience, enrolling in such a course was a turning point—not only did I gain practical knowledge about arranging for strings like violins, violas, cellos, and bass, but I also got a glimpse into how composers treat their craft as a business. Hearing instructors talk about gigs, directors as clients, and recording sessions as routine was a reality check that transformed my approach. The honest, sometimes harsh feedback I received was invaluable. For example, being told that my woodwind parts "wouldn't be able to breathe" was hard to accept at first, but it pushed me to understand concepts like dovetailing and orchestral balance deeply. It revealed the gap between my initial ideas and the bare minimum industry standards, which was intimidating yet motivating. This process of confronting one’s weaknesses is something every aspiring composer should be prepared for. One surprising aspect was how emotional the journey could be. I often found myself venting to family about feeling inadequate, but with encouragement, I realized that growth takes time. The discomfort of losing the romanticized dream and facing the reality of skill-building was necessary. If you’re considering a similar path, I recommend embracing vulnerability and seeking out mentors or communities where you can get real feedback. Ultimately, this course helped me build foundational skills essential for film scoring, such as orchestration techniques and client communication. It also shaped my understanding of the composer’s role in the creative industry. If you’re passionate about scoring for film or media, remember that persistence, openness to critique, and continuous learning are key to moving forward.