International talent agency First Artists Management has announced the launch of its inaugural Composer Assistant and Mentor Programme (C.A.M.P.) in partnership with Youth Music.
The initiative is open to anyone aged 18-25 living in England, Scotland or Wales who can demonstrate passion, grit and talent for scoring for film and TV. With a view to help increase diversity in the Music for Screen industry C.A.M.P. particularly welcomes applications from composers from underrepresented groups. The programme open to anyone regardless of traditional musical background, university degree, connections or support to work for free.
To apply, composers are required to submit a written or filmed statement and a link to their music, which will be assessed by a panel of industry experts. Ten participants will be selected for the programme’s level one, which includes an online educational series, practical advice and tips on the industry. Level one also involves one-to-one mentoring with experienced composer mentors, including David Arnold, Alex Baranowski, Anne Chmelewsky, Benji Merrison, CJ Mirra, Ré Olunuga, Paul Saunderson, Will Slater, Gazelle Twin, and Joe Wilson.
Beginning at the end of September 2022, level one will culminate with mentees pitching on a short film, judged by a panel of professional composers. Two of these candidates will then progress to level two of the programme, a three-month full-time paid Composer Assistant Placement beginning in November 2022. The composer assistants will then learn the process of scoring on a large-scale production, while developing their skills, expanding their networks and gaining professional credits.
Hamish Duff, head of First Artists Management's European office in London, says: 'C.A.M.P. is designed to be a platform to encourage new voices to enter into the music for screen industry by firstly demystifying this area of business as well as offering practical tips and opportunities for young composers to go on and create excellent work.'
'The programme is also designed to be a resource for other composers, agencies and productions looking for rising young composers and assistants, with candidates joining our talent network for ongoing support.'
C.A.M.P.'s application deadline is Friday 26 August 2022. More information is available here.
