How to Build a Professional Composer’s Site
A composer’s website functions in many ways and is the main means of communication with the outside world. A website will serve as a reference for your audience, act as your electronic agent, and store valuable media such as photographs, music excerpts, and information such as your biography for media outlets. It is your online business card and is essential to build your career in the 21st century. Following are several key elements necessary to an effective music composer’s website.
1. When choosing the design for your site make sure to consider ease of use so that visitors can navigate your site easily.
2. Display your activity by posting dates of recent and upcoming performances of your work.
3. Update your works list often. Performers do check composers’ websites looking for new works for their instrument or ensemble.
4. When adding biographical information to your website it is in your interest to provide both full and condensed versions. Often, programs or media outlets prefer a short biography.
5. Post no less than three music excerpts of your work for listeners to demo as easily accessible .mp3s.
6. Huge areas of musical goings-on are social networking sites, so create a profile and post some links to your work. Be a part of the scene!
7. Your contact information should be professional and memorable. You’re in trouble if you’re still using that guitargod 13 @ aol.com email address so simply use your real name or business name.
An effective website that follows the above suggestions will increase your visibility and undoubtedly lead to extensive career opportunities. However, while you should maintain a certain level of professionalism you should not be afraid to show a little personality. It is certainly good to show your credentials but visitors will feel a stronger connection to you if you show your human side.
Good luck!
