What I hope to get out of the rally

[teleblaster]

Going to my 1st rally this year. My goals are pretty clear. I'm absolutely consumed/posessed with becoming a successful (6 digits or more) commercial songwriter. Not particularly interested in pitching songs to major labels, or signing a record deal. I want to make my living writing cues for film, tv, commercials etc.I've had some success already. 5 placements in less than 2 years with TAXI. I'm hoping the rally will help me take things 'to the proverbial next level' (that phrase is really worn out isn't it..)So, with that in mind I'm interested in hearing any advice folks might have to help me target my rally experience towards my goals. A few questions:1) Will there be mentors there that can help me with my goals; specifically, writing for film and tv?2) Is there help and information around building a business plan -- how many songs do you need to publish per year, what is the expected rate of publish to placement, what is the average take per placement, how do you factor all that into a legitimate budget etc?3) There seems to be a fairly large emphasis on 'song writing' as opposed to writing instrumentals -- is that the case, or is there a goodly amount of curriculum based around writing for film and tv? (apologies for not having read the course outlines yet)Can't wait for November!Erich

[gitarrero]

Hi erichI was at the rally 2007 & I'll try to answer your questions. note that I can't say anything detailed about this year's workshops, panels etc, but I think I can give you some general infos:1) Will there be mentors there that can help me with my goals; specifically, writing for film and tv?yes, there will be quite some people with qualified knowledge, both industry professionals (publishers etc) as well as members of taxi.2) Is there help and information around building a business plan -- how many songs do you need to publish per year, what is the expected rate of publish to placement, what is the average take per placement, how do you factor all that into a legitimate budget etc?this is hard to predict since it depends on many factors (how good your music got market by a given library, the quality of your tunes, your styles, etc). but I'll think if you're hanging around in the lobby and speak with people who are earning money with film/tv, you'll be able to get an idea.3) There seems to be a fairly large emphasis on 'song writing' as opposed to writing instrumentals -- is that the case, or is there a goodly amount of curriculum based around writing for film and tv? (apologies for not having read the course outlines yet)if I understand your question correct your asking if you can achieve your goal with instrumental music.the short & sweet answer is: yes.hope that helps,martin

[teleblaster]

Thanks Martin,Hope to see you at the rally. Erich