Unionization of composers? Last night's meeting...

[mazz]

I just posted a blog post with my take on this whole discussion:http://mazzblog-mazz.blogspot.com/2009/ ... s.htmlJust my 2c.

[kevinmathie]

Thanks for weighing in, everyone! I think this is an important discussion, since -- if the union organizers are ultimately successful -- it will effect each one of us in some way.I've read each of your responses with interest, and have actually come away with more perspectives to think about. I know I came out early in favor of a unionization or guild(ization?), but those who aren't in favor of that have brought up great points. Makes me think.I love the idea of a vetting process, btw. That could be useful in either a union or guild. As was mentioned before, SAG does that, as does the stage actor's union, Actor's Equity.Anyway, I don't have much to add right now. Your ideas and comments are still percolating in my brain. It's given me a lot to think about.

[kevinmathie]

Nov 22, 2009, 6:54pm, mazz wrote:I just posted a blog post with my take on this whole discussion:http://mazzblog-mazz.blogspot.com/2009/ ... s.htmlJust my 2c.Nice! I just read it. Great post.

[hummingbird]

just got this notice:VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR COMPOSER UNIONIZING EFFORT The Association of Media Composers and Lyricists (http://www.theamcl.org) is seeking volunteers to help with early administrative and other organizing efforts in their work to create the industry's first composers union. We're looking for passionate composers and lyricists who want to play a part in helping make our industry a better place for all of us to work and grow in who are supportive of the concept of creating a union. Tasks include administrative tasks, helping with our online website, and spreading the word to the composer industry about the new union and what we're trying to accomplish. We hope you'll want to be a part of this exciting ground-floor movement to finally bring some respect and better working conditions to the art and craft of music for film and television. If interested, please email your contact information and the type(s) of work you'd like to volunteer for to: help@theamcl.org ---- you'll note you have to live in LA to be a member of http://www.theamcl.org

[dovetail]

Nice blog, Mazz. And don't forget that library music is used extensively in commercials, even those with the largest budget spots with the highest profiles. What used to be the domain of custom music has fallen to the library business.

[mojobone]

I wish the LA film composers well and I hope they make out okay. I know a strong union can be a good thing when market forces push large corporations toward exploitation of artists, and that a union vetting process is good for producers/employers as well, because standards are established that help ensure a minimum quality standard and reduce the flake factor in dealing with composers. My curse is seeing both sides of every issue. I'm currently a contractor and sub-contractor, but back when I was hanging 4X8 slabs of granite on thirty story buildings, it was good to know the union had my back.

[t4mh]

Nov 22, 2009, 10:42am, mazz wrote:Well, I still believe, in my airy fairy Utopian way, that you attract more bees with honey. If a client has a choice to start a new relationship with 2 equally great composers, one who is a nice guy and the other is a grumpy, jaded, rude person, and they could only choose one, who would you think they would choose to work with? And why does "business" have to be impersonal and cold and only about money? Business is about connecting with people and creating networks so more money can be made, but the money follows the people and the networks. A positive relationship opens a lot of doors beyond just the primary one. An excellent referral is a fantastic opportunity. I wouldn't refer someone who is a jerk just because they are a great composer, because it reflects back on me. There's plenty of great music out there, but a jerk leaves a lasting impression long after the project is over.But that's just my naive view of things.MazzI agree with this sentiment completely. Having spent the larger part of my life working in the corporate world I can tell you that corporate people or business people are really just people. They have metrics and goals to meet and are judged on those things alone. They will do what they have to do in order to meet their metrics. When you are someone who can make their lives easier in some way, You're IN! You have to meet these people and THAT is what TAXI does.Keith

[BraveNote]

Hey Glen. That's OK. I know exactly where you're coming from. I also do play live whenever I get the opportunity. I get paid handsomely on an infrequent basis. I don't sell CD's there but, I get to meet new friends and get my drinks for free too. There's no substitute for the kind of interaction there is with the listening audience. It's like therapy for me. Almost an addiction. You know immediately when you've got them breathing the same breath you breathe. Hi Vikki, "It's my belief that you can be both unique and write for the market's needs." I agree with you! I'd just like to know when!!

[mazz]

"It's my belief that you can be both unique and write for the market's needs."I agree with you! I'd just like to know when!! For me it's every day.