Online Graduate Diploma in Film and Game Scoring

An eight-month online training experience for film and game composers. Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Internationally recognised.

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Level Up Your Skills in Film and Game Scoring 

From anywhere in the world.

Ready to transform your professional portfolio and invest in your film and game scoring career?

Record your music with the European Recording Orchestra (ERO) in 9 remote recording sessions. Receive multi-cam HD video for your portfolio. Get weekly one-on-one sessions with our faculty to focus on course content and refine your unique compositional voice.

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Online Platform

135+ hours of essential training in Scoring the Screen, MIDI mockups, sound design, orchestration, mixing & production, and more

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From DAW to Studio

9 remote recording sessions of your music with the European Recording Orchestra (ERO), multi-cam HD video recorded for your portfolio

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Flexible Schedule

Learn at your own pace and customise your own working schedule, as the programme's commitment is 4-6 hours of content videos per week

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Focused Mentorship

Advance your skills through weekly 1-on-1 sessions with our expert faculty, focusing on course content, developing your skillset and your creative voice

9 Module Catalogue

Gain access to 120 hours of essential educational content for the modern composer, organised into 9 learning modules and catalogued via our custom online instructional platform. Login from wherever you are, whenever you want.

Module 1: Scoring the Screen: Learning the Vocabulary

The history of film music dates back less than a century, starting with early experiments in Russia and evolving into a recognisable musical language.

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Module 2: Scoring the Screen: Using the Vocabulary

This training module is a hands-on course in film scoring, covering theory and practice in composing original underscore language.

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Module 3: Scoring the Screen: Advanced Tools for Musical Storytelling

This training module focuses on the evolution of music for film and its impact on the film scoring industry.

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Module 4: Scoring the Screen: Developing A Unique Personal Style

This training module focuses on the evolution of music for film and its impact on the film scoring industry.

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Module 5: Orchestration for Film

Orchestration is a creative art in its own right, requiring knowledge of each standard orchestral instrument, including its range, timbral palette, and technical features.

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Module 6: The Art of the Mockup

The importance of technology and workflow in film and game scoring cannot be overstated. This module focuses on teaching aspiring composers the most crucial elements of technology used by modern composers.

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Module 7: Recording & Mixing for Orchestra and Film

Learn about microphone setup, session recording, mixing and mastering with ProTools, and music editing in this comprehensive recording and mixing module.

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Module 8: Sound Design & Electronic Music Composition

Explore the world of sound design and electronic music composition in "Sound Design & Electronic Music Composition.

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Module 9: Scoring for Games

Become a game scoring expert with "Scoring for Games." Learn linear and non-linear compositional strategies, relevant workflows, interactivity, technical constraints, file delivery processes and audio development to deliver finished products.

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Learn, Compose & Record Remotely

Learn the art of scoring under dialogue, depicting setting with winds, inspiring high drama with brass and using strings to make two characters fall in love. Compose at your own pace. Record from the comfort of your home while the European Recording Orchestra (ERO) is in our studios with our professional production team at your service.

9 Studio Recording Sessions

9 studio recording sessions of your music, recorded by the European Recording Orchestra (ERO). Receive multi-cam HD videos of your sessions to build an impactful professional portfolio.

Produce your sessions alongside our orchestrators and score supervisors via our integrated HD video and audio streaming, straight from the control room to your home.

Flexible Schedule

Flexible Schedule

Embrace the freedom to learn and compose on your terms, with a flexible schedule adaptable to your unique lifestyle.

We understand you're balancing a full-time job, personal commitments, or other creative projects; our program provides you with the tools and support to enhance your skills at your own pace, empowering you to achieve your musical goals without compromising your daily routine.

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Weekly 1-on-1 Sessions

Receive personalized guidance each week from your course leader on the topics most relevant to you.

Whether you need advice on orchestration techniques, honing your composition style, or navigating the industry, our tailored approach ensures that your learning journey meets your specific needs, empowering you to overcome challenges and achieve your creative potential.

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Learn from Experienced Lecturing Faculty and Industry Professionals

Join a community of like-minded composers and directly benefit from the many years of professional experience of our lecturing faculty. One of our primary goals is to help you develop your own unique voice as a film composer.

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Phillip Arthur Simmons

Online Programme Leader

American film composer, orchestrator and conductor 

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Mark Kuypers

Online Programme Leader

Dutch film composer, orchestrator and conductor

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Dr. Andy Hill

MFA Programme Director

Former Vice President of Music Production at Disney, Author of the acclaimed book "Scoring the Screen"

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Dr. Norman Ludwin

Orchestration for Film

Hollywood Orchestrator whose credits include Jurassic World, Inside Out, Star Trek Into Darkness, and more

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Exclusive Alumni Network

Study alongside and collaborate with other international composers. Join our network of over 360 composers from more than 60 different countries via our Alumni Access initiative. Gain exclusive ongoing access to live lectures, webinars and virtual events with guest composers.

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Hear Our Online Composers' Music

REINCARNATIONS - Hideki Tsutsumi (Japan), European Recording Orchestra (ERO)

Film Scoring Academy of Europe Online Alumnus Hideki Tsutsumi (Japan) records his piece entitled REINCARNATIONS with the European Recording Orchestra (ERO).

Online Graduate Composer Featurette: Florence Sabeva (London)

Composer Florence Sabeva (London) participated in the Online Graduate Diploma in Film and Game Scoring at the Film Scoring Academy of Europe. She recorded the score to this video, "Thanks for Nothing", with a 52-piece symphony orchestra as part of the programme. 

OCEAN SURREALISM - Pamela C. Cavero Z. (Peru), European Recording Orchestra (ERO)

“Ocean Surrealism” is an orchestral composition inspired by the scene “Tiger’s Vision” from the movie “Life of Pi”. This piece seeks to immerse the listener in a world of sound and magic that transcends reality.

What Our Online Graduates Say

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If you are working as a freelance musician as myself and want to learn new skills and how to become a better film/media composer but don’t want to give up your professional life, this online film scoring program is for you! I learned so much on this course: storytelling, orchestration, finding my own voice and all the necessary technical skills every composer need if they are seriously thinking about making a living in this industry. All the modules are well organised, clear with high quality content and cover all the necessary subjects. The bonuses of the course are the eight live recording sessions where you can apply everything you have learned during all these months. And you will end up with an amazing portfolio!
If you are working as a freelance musician as myself and want to learn new skills and how to become a better film/media composer but don’t want to give up your professional life, this online film scoring program is for you! I learned so much on this course: storytelling, orchestration, finding my own voice and all the necessary technical skills every composer need if they are seriously thinking about making a living in this industry. All the modules are well organised, clear with high quality content and cover all the necessary subjects. The bonuses of the course are the eight live recording sessions where you can apply everything you have learned during all these months. And you will end up with an amazing portfolio!
Florence Sabeva (United Kingdom) | Online Graduate
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I am delighted that I made the decision to join this online program. The program is carefully designed to deliver a beautiful mix of information that makes the study journey both highly developmental and truly enjoyable. The way modules are designed and synchronised with specific moments / dates where we need this particular example or information for our recording sessions is remarkable. And it shows that our teachers, tutors and professors are not only very knowledgeable but also caring and truly keen to pace their vast knowledge and experience in a way that we students could absorb and make best use of. The support system created around the program is also unique, including a mix of different 1:1 interaction with the professors, intervie...
I am delighted that I made the decision to join this online program. The program is carefully designed to deliver a beautiful mix of information that makes the study journey both highly developmental and truly enjoyable. The way modules are designed and synchronised with specific moments / dates where we need this particular example or information for our recording sessions is remarkable. And it shows that our teachers, tutors and professors are not only very knowledgeable but also caring and truly keen to pace their vast knowledge and experience in a way that we students could absorb and make best use of. The support system created around the program is also unique, including a mix of different 1:1 interaction with the professors, interviews with professional composers, weekly support meeting with program leaders, and group discussion with our colleagues / class. And when needed - as is the case with me - special support in one of the skills that I particularly needed extra help with. This makes the support system adequate for very different student profiles and levels. On top of all that, the understanding from our faculty that we come from different music background, embrace and working with that. I come from the Middle East, my ears are tuned to different music (sometimes), and I was very happy to find my tutors working with that and trying to bring the best out of me. Great program, experienced, caring and respectful faculty, enjoyable journey. And 9 live recording sessions is a WOW!!!!
Dream Samir (Egypt) | Online Graduate
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I couldn't recommend this course enough to anyone who wants to delve into the world of film scoring. This course offers unique recording opportunities, the chance to meet and interact with some of the best composers working today, and most importantly a friendly faculty who are truly invested in nurturing your skills. I'm truly grateful for the journey of learning and self discovery that the FSAE provides and I encourage anyone who wishes to learn this art form to enroll.
I couldn't recommend this course enough to anyone who wants to delve into the world of film scoring. This course offers unique recording opportunities, the chance to meet and interact with some of the best composers working today, and most importantly a friendly faculty who are truly invested in nurturing your skills. I'm truly grateful for the journey of learning and self discovery that the FSAE provides and I encourage anyone who wishes to learn this art form to enroll.
Udo Grunewald (Ireland) | Online Graduate
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Composing for film has been a dream of mine for a couple of decades now, but life responsibilities always got in the way of being able to go back to school for this purpose. It wasn't until FSAE came along with an entirely online program that I was able to finally take this step. The online graduate diploma program is chock-full of great instruction, and I have been able to learn so much about the language of film music, how to make my mockups more realistic, and how to mix live instruments into hybrid cues. I feel like I have gained several years of experience and education in just a few months. From the personal attention to the occasional live classes that allow all of us in the class to come together virtually from our home studios al...
Composing for film has been a dream of mine for a couple of decades now, but life responsibilities always got in the way of being able to go back to school for this purpose. It wasn't until FSAE came along with an entirely online program that I was able to finally take this step. The online graduate diploma program is chock-full of great instruction, and I have been able to learn so much about the language of film music, how to make my mockups more realistic, and how to mix live instruments into hybrid cues. I feel like I have gained several years of experience and education in just a few months. From the personal attention to the occasional live classes that allow all of us in the class to come together virtually from our home studios all over the world, FSAE presents a great balance of flexibility and accountability that results in a world-class program. I cannot recommend FSAE highly enough.
Steve Sensenig (United States) | Online Graduate
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Highly recommended! It doesn’t matter what your qualities are as a musician. The professionalism of the teaching staff and the high quality of the course guarantee learning in all areas. The course is extremely well organized and this means that it can be combined very well with everyone's life.
Highly recommended! It doesn’t matter what your qualities are as a musician. The professionalism of the teaching staff and the high quality of the course guarantee learning in all areas. The course is extremely well organized and this means that it can be combined very well with everyone's life.
Pere Gaul (Spain) | Online Graduate
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Enrolling on the “Online Graduate Diploma in Film and Game Scoring” program has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It has given me the right tools and experience to improve as a composer and as a person. You’ll have the opportunity to connect, share and learn tons from the greatest teachers and composers from all over the world. Also, you’ll create and record your professional portfolio with amazing musicians. This program is truly worth it and the best part of it: it’s online!
Enrolling on the “Online Graduate Diploma in Film and Game Scoring” program has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It has given me the right tools and experience to improve as a composer and as a person. You’ll have the opportunity to connect, share and learn tons from the greatest teachers and composers from all over the world. Also, you’ll create and record your professional portfolio with amazing musicians. This program is truly worth it and the best part of it: it’s online!
Pamela Cavero (Lima, Perú) | Online Graduate
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I enthusiastically recommend this course to any aspiring film composer. The Online Graduate Diploma in Film and Game Scoring is aimed at every composer who wants to receive top level education on the craft of scoring for motion pictures. The programme starts by introducing the student to the historical development of film music and gradually exposes the technical tools necessary to write music that actually sounds like film music. The study material is first class, carefully prepared by top experts of the field. Absorbing the material required serious work, but I was never left alone: I had constant support and feedback from an extremely prepared tutor, who has the job of assisting weekly each student throughout the whole 8 month duration ...
I enthusiastically recommend this course to any aspiring film composer. The Online Graduate Diploma in Film and Game Scoring is aimed at every composer who wants to receive top level education on the craft of scoring for motion pictures. The programme starts by introducing the student to the historical development of film music and gradually exposes the technical tools necessary to write music that actually sounds like film music. The study material is first class, carefully prepared by top experts of the field. Absorbing the material required serious work, but I was never left alone: I had constant support and feedback from an extremely prepared tutor, who has the job of assisting weekly each student throughout the whole 8 month duration of the course. The theoretical study is accompanied by several composition assignments, which have the goal of applying the concepts learned in class and produce a score that will be performed by live players. Although before the start of the course I felt intimidated by the task, everything went smoothly: the tutor assisted me while writing the scores, giving feedback, making suggestions and spotting issues, while a top orchestrator made sure before every session that the score was well-written and ready to be played. After repeating this study-write-record cycle several times, I now feel confident and ready to write and record film music entirely on my own. The faculty staff is top-level, serious, and reliable, recording sessions are well-organized, and the amount of knowledge one can acquire is really impressive! This has been one of the best learning experiences in my life.
Federico Aschieri (Italy) | Online Graduate
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Highly recommend this course to everyone! Participating in this program has been an invaluable experience for myself as a young composer. I have gained confidence and knowledge across all aspects of the film scoring process. I have felt really supported by all of the staff from the Film Scoring Academy of Europe. They have an incredible passion for what they do and have endless amounts of knowledge to soak up. The weekly catch ups with the course leader are so valuable in allowing you to work on your individual needs and push yourself further.

Highly recommend this course to everyone! Participating in this program has been an invaluable experience for myself as a young composer. I have gained confidence and knowledge across all aspects of the film scoring process. I have felt really supported by all of the staff from the Film Scoring Academy of Europe. They have an incredible passion for what they do and have endless amounts of knowledge to soak up. The weekly catch ups with the course leader are so valuable in allowing you to work on your individual needs and push yourself further.

Catia Rizio (Australia) | Online Graduate
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I took this online course for four reasons: inspiration, education, feedback and deadlines. From the assignments and unscored short films I got inspiration to write beautiful lines. From the plentiful video lessons and score analyses I got education to make informed decisions and write functional scores. From the 1-on-1 sessions with the brilliant faculty I got feedback to learn from my mistakes and to grow as an artist. And yes, the deadlines made me get off my arse and deliver everything on time – which is what you have to do in the real world, too. FSAE has given me all the tools for film composing – but most importantly the confidence to know I am ready to work on a full-feature film in an active dialogue with filmmakers and to help the...

I took this online course for four reasons: inspiration, education, feedback and deadlines. From the assignments and unscored short films I got inspiration to write beautiful lines. From the plentiful video lessons and score analyses I got education to make informed decisions and write functional scores. From the 1-on-1 sessions with the brilliant faculty I got feedback to learn from my mistakes and to grow as an artist. And yes, the deadlines made me get off my arse and deliver everything on time – which is what you have to do in the real world, too. FSAE has given me all the tools for film composing – but most importantly the confidence to know I am ready to work on a full-feature film in an active dialogue with filmmakers and to help them enhance their art with my own craft.

Mikko Aaltio (Finland) | Online Graduate

Early Admissions Open for November 2024

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Fill out the form to receive personalised answers to your questions and more information about the Online Graduate Diploma in Film and Game Scoring.

Additional Information: Online Graduate Diploma

How does the online programme work?

This is both an asynchronous and synchronous program. Composers do not need to sign on at a certain time each day for classes. Composers watch our training series, which we have filmed and edited at the Academy, at times convenient to them. The 9 recording sessions are scheduled and distributed throughout the 8 month course.

Module content, lectures and exercises are delivered via our exclusive online platform, which we have coded and created specifically for this program. Students login with their unique login details for access to the program content.

Each student will have weekly 30-minute one-on-one sessions with our Online Programme Leader on course content, as well as a 30-minute one-on-one session with Dr. Norman Ludwin, our orchestration lecturer and one of Michael Giacchino's orchestrators, on their orchestrations prior to each recording session. Each student will also participate in group sessions hosted throughout the programme where their music is reviewed by FSAE faculty.

All recording sessions will be held in Doli Media Studio and Sofia Session Studio, conducted and produced by the faculty at the Film Scoring Academy of Europe, and recorded by the European Recording Orchestra (ERO). Students do not need to attend the recording sessions in person. Instead, students will be able to login to the HD video and audio streams to produce their recording sessions alongside our team of orchestrators and score supervisors.

The online Graduate Diploma in Film and Game Scoring includes lectures from our core faculty, but not our celebrity guest artists, who are reserved for our full-time MFA programme.

 

What is the schedule of the upcoming class?

Click here to view the schedule of the upcoming class.

 

Tuition and Fees

Total Graduate Diploma Tuition: €9,500

We accept payment plans: spread your tuition over the 8-month duration of the course and pay monthly.

Included in Tuition:

  • 120+ hours of comprehensive training in Scoring the Screen, MIDI Mockups, Sound Design, Orchestration, Mixing & Production, and more -- an essential training for film and game composers

  • A substantial professional portfolio: 9 recording sessions of your music with the European Recording Orchestra (ERO)

  • Multi-cam HD video footage of the European Recording Orchestra (ERO) playing your music in the recording studio

  • 1-on-1 tutorials with our Online Programme Leader on all course content (every week)

  • 1-on-1 tutorials on your orchestrations with Norman Ludwin, orchestrator for Michael Giacchino (prior to every recording session)

  • Music review sessions with our faculty on developing your creative voice as a film composer

  • A Graduate Diploma in Film and Game Scoring upon successful completion of the program. A Graduate Diploma is a Graduate-level degree worth 30 credits (60 ECTS Credits in Europe)

 

Technology Requirements

Technology Requirements:
 

  • DAW (Logic Pro X, Cubase, Digital Performer, etc.)

  • Notation Software (Dorico, Sibelius, Finale, etc.)

  • High Quality Reference Headphones

  • MIDI Keyboard

Technology Recommendations:

  • 4, 6 or 8+ core processor, 32+ GB ram, internal SSD

  • NotePerformer Playback Engine

  • Avid Pro Tools 12

  • Serum by Xfer Records

  • Cinematic Studio Series Libraries

  • Spectrasonics Omnisphere

  • Soundtoys, Slate Digital, or Waves Mixing Suite

  • External SSD for Sound Libraries

 

Application Requirements

Submitting your free application is simple. You'll need to submit two examples of your music in audio or video format, and two examples of scores you have created to demonstrate your proficiency in notation software. Head over to the Apply page for the Online Graduate Diploma in Film and Game Scoring to submit your application.

 

 

 

Partnerships & Associations

Partnerships & Associations

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