Music Library Demo CDs

[spariam]

Quick question - I've had some recent placements with a couple music libraries that I contacted myself (as well as one via Taxi). I've recently contacted a few other libraries and they require a physical demo CD (for the earlier libraries, I simply sent links to mp3s for the initial submission/query).Now the question - should I do a montage, or just send a few complete tracks? (I've got everything from 30 secs to 3 minutes). This wasn't specified in their e-mails or website.While I do a variety of music, I do specialize in a few distinct styles, and that's why I wonder if a montage might be better.

[ernstinen]

Hi Spariam,I've got a bunch of masters signed to music libraries, and I believe they'd like to hear full-length works, but why not do both!? CD-R's are cheap!Make sure you label them so they know what they're getting, and explain in your cover letter that one is a montage. Some people are so busy that a 5 minute montage might be all the time they'll spend listening.Also, make sure the pieces are copyrighted! Good luck,Ern

[Casey H]

Quote:Quick question - I've had some recent placements with a couple music libraries that I contacted myself (as well as one via Taxi). I've recently contacted a few other libraries and they require a physical demo CD (for the earlier libraries, I simply sent links to mp3s for the initial submission/query).Now the question - should I do a montage, or just send a few complete tracks? (I've got everything from 30 secs to 3 minutes). This wasn't specified in their e-mails or website.While I do a variety of music, I do specialize in a few distinct styles, and that's why I wonder if a montage might be better.I would send full tracks. However, there is nothing wrong with sending both full tracks and "hook" snippets. For multiple genres, you could indicate on the track list the genres next to the titles...Song A (Hook) Moderm RockSong A (Full Track) Modern RockSong B (Hook) Country RockSong B (Full Track) Country RockSong C (Hook) Pop Song C (Full Track) PopIf you get a chance to ask, ask if they would prefer separate CDs for separate genres. It makes it easier for them to file and categorize BUT some are turned off by a package with more than one CD. So only send more than one CD if they say OK.Tip: Use a FULL SIZE jewel case. Put track listing and contact information on the CD case cover or tray liner. Put CD title, and genre, and (name/contact info if it fits) on the CD case spine. That makes it visible when filed on a bookshelf. Casey

[spariam]

Thanks for the info...I forgot to ask how many tracks to include. I'm inclined to send about five to seven tracks (a few of them are less than a minute, no longer that three) and then add a montage as the last track or on a separate CD. Need to get a CD label software and paper as well, I think.Actually, one book I read mentioned using both a montage and individual tracks on the same CD...first track is short montage, no more than 15 secs of each song, then full tracks after that so they can hear fully developed pieces. (the book mentioned five to seven tracks for a regular demo CD, but only using a few full tracks in the above scenario - I'd still consider sending full tracks of all the pieces I uesd in the montage if it were only five to seven tune) Obviously, best song/style first.Ah, the copyrights (or the registering of)...I have a constant flow of checks going out to DC.

[Casey H]

Quote:Thanks for the info...I forgot to ask how many tracks to include. I'm inclined to send about five to seven tracks (a few of them are less than a minute, no longer that three) and then add a montage as the last track or on a separate CD. Need to get a CD label software and paper as well, I think.Ah, the copyrights (or the registering of)...I have a constant flow of checks going out to DC.Don't forget that you can copyright as many songs as you want on one application and for one fee. The SR (sound recording) form is needed if you are pitching your actual recordings. Also, you can copyright music, lyrics, AND the recording all on the SR form. So, it is not necessary to submit both a PA and an SR form. Casey

[spariam]

Right - I usually send in a quarterly collection (form SR), titled something like - Doug Sparling Collection V - Summer 2006, etc. I'll send in a single track, or a small number of tunes inbetween if I've got something special going on.

[matto]

Quote:Now the question - should I do a montage, or just send a few complete tracks? (I've got everything from 30 secs to 3 minutes). This wasn't specified in their e-mails or website.Doug I'd say neither approach is "wrong" as long as you make it clear what it is you're submitting. The best advice I can give you is to ask each individual company what they prefer.If that's not possible for some reason, the most important thing is to put your very best foot forward. Meaning only submit your best songs (or excerpts thereof) in your best styles. Edit out overlong intro's or any "boring sections" . Ultimately, it will more important that your demo be of the highest quality than whether it's individual tracks or a montage...Good luck to you!matto

[spariam]

Thanks matto,I'll simply ask the library that emailed me back. If I get response, I'll send what they want, otherwise I'll do one of the above.

[davewalton]

Quote:, I'll send what they want, otherwise I'll do one of the above.We forgot the most obvious option. Include five of your best tracks along with a "Taxi Forum Montage" that includes music from all your forum friends.

[Casey H]

Quote:Quote:, I'll send what they want, otherwise I'll do one of the above.We forgot the most obvious option. Include five of your best tracks along with a "Taxi Forum Montage" that includes music from all your forum friends Casey. Just a minor correction to Dave's post... Casey