[Music Orchestration Services]

 What is Orchestration?

The prominent composer and arranger William Russo once said that the four principal elements of music are melody, harmony, rhythm, and orchestration. Russo was absolutely right, the art of orchestration is a major component of a composition's  creative process, whether it's a symphonic work, a soundtrack, or a song. To better appreciate the importance and function of orchestration in a musical piece, let's look at how two significant music dictionaries define it.

According to the New Grove Dictionary of Music and Musicians, "Orchestration is the art of combining the sounds of a large complex of instruments (an orchestra) to form a satisfactory blend and balance." Also, The New American Dictionary of Music defines orchestration as "the arranging of music for an orchestra or similar ensemble, with attention to the proper use of the individual instruments and the artful combination of the various instrumental sounds into a harmonious whole."

From the above definitions, we may deduce that orchestration is a kind of a 'dress' for a composition. A 'dress' with potentially varied colors and shapes that should be absolutely right for a particular composition, in order to unveil it in a clear and effective manner. It is further evident from the above definitions that orchestration can be an intricate and a highly technical skill, depending, of course, on the creative intentions of the composer.

   Choosing an Orchestrator

When seeking the collaboration of an orchestrator, keep in mind the  essential abilities listed below. In addition, a professional orchestrator should provide a client with references and ample examples of scores and recordings from previous projects. An accomplished music orchestrator should have:

• • A fine aural imagination: a thorough knowledge of the individual instruments, their capabilities and characteristics, instrumental combinations, special effects, and a mental conception of the sound of each are all essential skills.
  • Accurate workmanship: attention to detail and a practical approach when orchestrating and notating scores and parts are important for a successful orchestration, and the avoidance of wasted time and money in rehearsal and recording sessions.
  • Music theory knowledge: no amount of artful orchestration will produce adequate results, unless the orchestrator is proficient in harmony, counterpoint, form, and composition.
  • Technological proficiency: extensive experience in notating scores in a music notation software such as Finale or Sibelius, and equally comfortable in using music technology applications and equipment and personal computers. If anything goes wrong with an orchestrator's software or equipment, he/she must be able to resolve it promptly.
  • Superior organizational and communication skills: a professional orchestrator has the ability to organize his/her time and daily obligations to accommodate the composer's deadlines, and promptly and effectively communicate with him/her in the course of the project.

 Our Music Orchestration Services

Today it's common for composers to require the services of an orchestrator; either because they have a busy schedule, they are more creative when collaborating with another musician, or they don't feel comfortable working with many acoustic instruments. Whatever the case is, the ScoreMasters® team guarantees to accommodate the creative aspirations, particular workflow, and the often rigid schedule of a composer. We can either work from MIDI files, audio files, printed sheet music, or hand-written scores. Furthermore, our team is available to orchestrate a song or musical piece for a specific ensemble and style which is very commonly called for by singers and bands, and for various occasions (corporate events, weddings, anniversaries, etc.). You are welcome to contact us for a free consultation to discuss your next orchestral work, and to map out an initial project plan. Our music orchestration services include:

• • Any combination of instruments and ensembles, including contemporary instruments such as drums set, electric guitar, etc.
  • In most musical styles, whether popular or classical
  • Customer receives via email (or online delivery service) the score and parts in Pdf format for backup and printing
  • Customer receives a rough demo or, if requested, a professionally produced recording

 Orchestration Example

Below is a short example of how a MIDI orchestration may be rewritten for a live orchestra. The example consists of a solo piano performing the main theme while the strings execute an ascending and descending quasi-arpeggio passage. The intention of this passage was to create an icy, winter-like atmosphere. To achieve this, the strings are all muted (con sordino), are rearranged for divided (divisi) first and second violins and violas, and the quasi-arpeggio figures are performed with a recurring sequence of increased and decreased loudness (crescendo, diminuendo). The remaining instruments assist in creating the desired sonic image. Take a look at the score excerpts from the MIDI orchestration and the final re-orchestration, while listening to the recording.

Contact us to hire our music orchestration services