[Fmpro] Question on How to calculate what to charge for a film score

Jim Chase jchase at billyhalemusic.com
Sat Jan 5 01:11:58 GMT 2008


"Let's say you get a call out of the blue to score a feature and they
ask what you'd charge for it... how would you answer?"

Ms. Gluck,

     You didn't mention if it was a feature length or a short, Indie  
film or a corporate blockbuster.  Please be more specific, as each  
case would call for a different rate schedule.

     Generally, starting with %10 of the total movie budget is not  
unreasonable, and should net you some respect, at least.  You may not  
know what the movie budget is, or even how much work will be involved  
in the project until after a spot-session with the Director/Producer  
team.   Many veterans would recommend an attorney -- one who  
specializes in Film Music -- in order to negotiate back-end,  
mechanicals, etc., so you don't have to.

     Maybe this reply will incite others on this list, who are plus 
+plus knowledge, to respond to your query.

Jim Chase



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