Senior Music Composer & Orchestrator for Cinematic Scores

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement fund contribution

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Music Composer & Orchestrator to craft original scores for feature films, documentaries, and promotional content in Bloemfontein. You will collaborate with directors and producers to translate narrative themes into evocative music and oversee orchestration for diverse ensembles.

The role requires a Master’s degree (or equivalent experience) and 7+ years in professional scoring, with proficiency in DAWs and notation software.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Music Composition, Orchestration, or related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience as a professional film composer with a diverse portfolio.
• Expertise in music theory, harmony, counterpoint, and orchestration for diverse ensembles.
• Proficiency with DAWs (Logic Pro, Cubase, Pro Tools) and notation software (Sibelius, Finale).
• Experience in music production, mixing, and mastering.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for collaboration with creative teams.
• Strong understanding of filmmaking and the role of music in narrative storytelling.
• Must be able to commit to a hybrid work schedule based in Bloemfontein.

Responsibilities

• Compose original music and orchestrations for feature films, documentaries, and promotional content.
• Collaborate with directors and producers to understand the creative vision and musical requirements.
• Develop musical themes, motifs, and soundscapes that align with the narrative and emotional tone.
• Orchestrate and arrange music for ensembles including full orchestras, chamber groups, and electronic instrumentation.
• Oversee music recording sessions with musicians, engineers, and studios.
• Produce high-quality demo tracks and final master recordings of scores.
• Manage music budgets and timelines effectively.
• Stay abreast of trends in film scoring and music technology.
• Ensure all compositions are original and copyright compliant.

Skills

Music theory

Orchestration

Collaboration

Communication

Time management

Education

Master's degree in Music Composition/Orchestration

Tools

Logic Pro

Cubase

Pro Tools

Sibelius

Finale

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious award-winning film production house, is seeking a highly accomplished Senior Music Composer & Orchestrator to create evocative and powerful scores for their upcoming cinematic projects in Bloemfontein . This role requires a deep understanding of musical theory, advanced orchestration techniques, and the ability to translate narrative themes and emotional arcs into compelling musical compositions. You will work closely with directors and producers to develop the sonic identity of films, crafting original scores that enhance storytelling and resonate with audiences. The ideal candidate is a versatile musician with a proven portfolio of professional scoring work, comfortable with both traditional orchestral arrangements and contemporary electronic music production. You will be a key creative contributor, shaping the emotional core of our productions through your artistry. This is an exceptional opportunity to leave your mark on significant film projects and collaborate with a team dedicated to artistic excellence in the Free State .

Key Responsibilities

Compose original music and orchestrations for feature films, documentaries, and promotional content. Collaborate closely with directors and producers to understand the creative vision and musical requirements of projects. Develop musical themes, motifs, and soundscapes that align with the narrative and emotional tone of the films. Orchestrate and arrange music for various ensembles, including full orchestras, chamber groups, and electronic instrumentation. Oversee music recording sessions, working with musicians, engineers, and studios. Produce high-quality demo tracks and final master recordings of scores. Manage music budgets and timelines effectively. Stay abreast of current trends in film scoring and music technology. Ensure all musical compositions are original and clear of any copyright infringements.

Requirements

A Master's degree in Music Composition, Orchestration, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience. Minimum of 7 years of experience as a professional film composer, with a strong portfolio showcasing a diverse range of cinematic scores. Expertise in music theory, harmony, counterpoint, and orchestration for diverse ensembles. Proficiency with Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) such as Logic Pro, Cubase, or Pro Tools, and notation software (e.g., Sibelius, Finale). Experience in music production, mixing, and mastering. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with creative teams. Strong understanding of filmmaking and the role of music in narrative storytelling. Ability to work under pressure and meet demanding deadlines. Must be able to commit to a hybrid work schedule based in Bloemfontein .

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health benefits, and a generous retirement fund contribution. Employees receive ample paid leave and opportunities for professional development, including workshops and masterclasses. You will be part of a creative and inspiring work environment, collaborating on visually stunning and emotionally resonant films. This role provides a unique platform to contribute to the cinematic arts and work within a supportive team. Enjoy the lifestyle of Bloemfontein while creating impactful artistic works for the Free State .