Chapter 30. The Challenges of Working as a Composer

Working in the video game industry as a composer can offer many rewards, but there are also many challenges and sacrifices you may encounter. This chapter aims to set realistic expectations and goals when pursuing a job as a composer, while also pointing out how composers deal with disappointment. Throughout this chapter you’ll learn about some of the traits of successful composers, ways to deal with competition, strategies to move on from rejection and failure, and a few tips about how composers handle finances.

Setting Expectations and Goals

From my experience in the industry, and through speaking with composers and former students, the average length of time it will take you to find success ...

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