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Is there a consensus as to whether the CDs we bring to the Rally should ONLY contain pieces that are available, i.e., not signed exclusively with another library? I'm finding that most of my best pieces are already signed with other libraries, leaving very little unattached music to include on CDs for the Rally. I'd like to think that the potential listeners would at least get a good sense of what I can do, even if the particular music they hear wasn't available to them. Would they be satisfied in assuming "there's more where that came from?"

After last year's Rally, I was contacted by a library wanting to sign one of the pieces they heard on my CD. I had to tell them that the piece wasn't available but that I would be very pleased to write and send them other material. They said no problem, feel free to send them other music and they'd let me know if they could use it. They also mentioned that they gave great weight to the music they received through the Taxi screening process, so they suggested also submitting pieces that way. (Of course, we'd have no way of knowing what company we submitted to unless the piece was forwarded.)

Anyway, just curious if presenting our best efforts on a CD, even if the music is already signed elsewhere, is okay to do.

Richard

I feel that putting one's best foot forwad is the best policy, even if it means including already signed material.

That being said, are you marketing yourself as a composer mainly, or are you trying to sign pieces? If both, then you might want to indicate which pieces are available.

Just some thoughts.

Mazz

mazz wrote:I feel that putting one's best foot forwad is the best policy, even if it means including already signed material.

That being said, are you marketing yourself as a composer mainly, or are you trying to sign pieces? If both, then you might want to indicate which pieces are available.

Just some thoughts.

Mazz

Thanks Mazz. You made some good points. I hadn't really considered the distinction between marketing myself as a composer and getting pieces signed. I assumed the latter was an outgrowth of the former, but I can see how blurring the line might make for a weaker presentation.

As always, thanks!

Richard

You could always make a few of each, a composer demo which showcases your best work and stylistic range, and a CD which has all the stuff that's currently looking for a home, in case you run into somebody eager to sign specific pieces...

For a general demo I have always used my best music regardless of whether it had been signed or not...as mazz said, you put your best foot forward...