Careers

Composer

Music plays a bigger part in games than just adding a backing track. An accomplished score can increase dramatic tension. It can also act as a core navigational tool, encouraging a player to take stock of their surroundings, alert them to danger, and heighten feelings of curiosity and excitement.

A game composer needs to write and produce original compositions that enhance and not distract players from the game. This will depend on having a good understanding of gameplay and being able to showcase a vast scope of audio techniques.

An ability to work collaboratively, taking on feedback, and communicating ideas is also imperative to succeed in this career path. Game composers often work closely with game designers, sound designers, and technicians to bring together the perfect accompanying audio.

Audio

You’ll love this role if you’re into:

Making Music
Telling Stories
Designing things
Performing

Is this information correct? Submit a correction

YOUR LEARNING JOURNEY

Most people working as Composer have a music degree. Above all, you should be someone that understands music and loves being creative and original.

As a professional, you’ll be producing original scores to heighten excitement, danger, and mystique within the narrative of the game. You’ll skill set might include programming, sound design, mixing and mastering. You’ll also need to be familiar with a range of music production software. We recommend using our tool picker to help you choose the right ones for your current level and purpose.

Working in the games industry is highly competitive and you’ll need to make sure your portfolio (a collection of your best work) stands out to employers and course leaders.

As a Composer, your work should showcase original music you’ve composed and prove a range of technical expertise in audio production. For more ideas, see our top tips page on building your portfolio.