Fees for national TV documentaries

larrydun · Apr 22, 2006

Hi - what a great website this is and well done Peter!!!!

I have a major documentary coming out in a few weeks time on BBC TV. This is my first foray into serious composing for media - I have composed mainly for orchestras and artists but never for documentary. Does anyone out there know where I can get an idea what I should be charging for my services to the production company, the owner is a friend of mine and as I am now 'on the team' (his words!) there are another 4 documentaries in the pipeline. Also any advice on licensing would be greatly appreciated! Many thanks. Larry

Pete Thomas · Apr 22, 2006

I am on the Musicians Union Music Writers Section committee, and we are currently putting together a new contract and commissioning guidelines.

Recommended fees vary widely, I'd say there is a 3 tier scale:

1. Beginners who are happy to get a foot in the door
2. Working pros
3. Superstars.

For a typical documentary with about 15 - 20 minutes of music and sig tune I would might fall into the above categories like this

The figures vary widely because they may or may not involve musician session fees which the composer is usually responsible for. (NB I recommend that you join the MU music writers section: you will be able to get advice from them/us about fees usage etc)

As it's the BBC I would think go for somewhere in category 2 even as a "beginner".

If the production company is good and experienced, they will have a sensible and honest budget for the music, so you could just ask your friend. You may find you get in on a higher level than most people - that's what happened to me - I got a very good budget on my first job, then had to drop a bit to compete as a relative newcomer.

Have you seen my pages on writing for film at:

http://www.petethomas.co.uk/composer-film-music.html

Hope this helps and good luck

larrydun · Apr 22, 2006

Many many thanks Pete - you are a wealth of knowledge! There is also a BBC DVD to take into consideration now as they loved the doc so much! If I get a BAFTA (!) then you shall come to dinner! Regards L

Dylan · Jul 3, 2006

Hi Larry

Congrats on the commission!

I had a quick look at your website and saw the the words "tutors included Thelonious Monk" Wow - that has got to be worth a story or two. Please tell more.

Dylan