The year was 1938 when a group of practicing composers and
arrangers writing music for movies decided to join together in order to promote
their art form, get proper recognition for their work, better working
conditions, proper compensation and in some instance even parking privileges.
One of the main goals for this new organization was to get royalties for their
orchestrations, which is still an issue in 2013.
The first president of the organization was the great American
arranger and composer
Robert Russell Bennett, best known for his orchestrations
of many well-known Broadway and Hollywood musicals. Today this organization has grown to over 500
members who are active in the preparation of music for movies, theatre,
recording, television and live performances.
The board of directors hosts a list of the most influential
leaders in the arranging/composing industry. There is also an advisory board
with members such as Alan & Marilyn Bergman, John Clayton,
Bill Conti, and
Quincy Jones.
The organization also sponsors monthly information lunches,
seminars and master classes, and workshops designed to support long term
members, students, and young professionals looking to become composers or
arrangers.
The ASMAC is just the organization that Big Grin Music will
be associated with. Big Grin Music’s goal is to prepare music for community
performers, semi-professional, and professional performers to perform with live
musicians. The live music industry survives on the music created by the ASMAC,
and Big Grin Music can only grow by being a part of this organization.
Two of the major programs ASMAC supports are a scholarship
competition for young arrangers/composers under the age of 30. This big band
arranging and composition competition in sponsored by film music composer Bill
Conti. The second is a Chamber Music Composition competition. These competitions
are invaluable resources for the development and recognition of new talent. At
the same time, it is a good tool for recruitment into the organization.
Another recruitment tool is the blog that ASMAC carries on
their site. This blog is used to promote the professional careers of many
arrangers/composers. It is also used as a sounding board for issues that affect
the live music industry. There is a big chance that will find info on your
favorite arranger/composer when you visit this site.
