xxvi, 478 pages : illustrations (some color) ; 24 cm
Notes:
Includes bibliographical references and index.
Contents:
Scoring for games. The language of music storytelling in games -- Breaking down the language of interactive music -- Spotting the game -- Working with a game development team -- Video game composition over the past 40 years -- Historical perspective of experimental music -- Fundamental video game scoring techniques. Composing and editing music loops -- Horizontal resequencing -- Vertical remixing -- Writing transitions and stingers -- Using sound design techniques in music -- Music as a gameplay element -- Advanced video game scoring techniques. MIDI and virtual instruments -- Real-time tempo variation and synchronization -- Advanced dynamic music manipulation techniques -- Aleatoric performance techniques for video games -- Algorithmic and generative music systems -- Using middleware to create advanced compositions -- Creating a custom music solution -- Bringing music into the game. Composing music with a digital audio workstation -- Live recording, session preparation, and mixing -- Mixing and exporting audio files to the game engine -- Implementation and programming -- Large-scale music development -- The business of scoring music for video games. The life of a video game composer -- Contracts, rights, and work for hire -- Creating an estimate -- Contract negotiation tactics -- How composers find work -- The challenge of working as a composer -- Conclusion and appendixes. Companion website and supporting -- Glossary -- Game music canon -- Resources -- Composer biographies.
Summary:
"Written by the developer of Berklee School of Music's pioneering game scoring program, this guide covers everything professional composers and music students need to know about composing interactive music for video games, and contains exclusive tools for interactive scoring -- tools that were previously available only at Berklee. Drawing on twenty years of professional experience in the game industry, Michael Sweet helps you master the unique language of music storytelling in games. Next, he walks you through he entire music composition process, from initial conceptualization and creative direction through implementation." -- Back cover.
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.