Music Editor

A Music Editor matches music to visual scenes in a manner that enhances the feel and impact of a film. For this position you have to have a good ear, and be sensitive to the story in the movie. You understand as the Music Editor that everything has to flow, so you have to be creative, but you also have to be technical, and know how to work a mixing board. It would also help if you have a knack for knowing when the exact right millisecond is to cue the stringed instruments for the hero’s fall from grace or his rise to the occasion. Oh, and you’ll be responsible for the film’s soundtrack.

Automatic thought: a Music Editor is a cool job. Problem is, it’s a highly competitive position, and it takes years to break into the major leagues of music editing. But it’s so worth it when you get there. Where else will you get to work with amazing Film Directors and Composers? You are the bridge between the two, making sure everyone’s “vision” is achieved through sound, weirdly enough.

Your work generally follows a trajectory: You’ll probably start with a conversation with the Director about where they want the music to begin and end. Then you’ll figure out the musical story with the Composer, deciding on a way to complement the action, and perhaps creating a theme song. You’ll attend all of the recording sessions, to make sure it’s all happening in accord with the original vision. And as behind-the-scenes it all seems to be, there’s still a category for you at the Academy Awards.