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Software Synths Demystified (with Jon Audio)
Dave Kropf and Jon Audio explore the art of mastering synthesizers, from the basics of wavetable and FM synthesis to the creative use of LFOs for emotional depth. They offer practical tips for improving your skills and discuss the impact of instrument selection on music, highlighted by the cue "Through Hell and Heartbreak."
What Are You Afraid Of?
In this episode of "The 52 Cues Podcast," Dave Kropf discusses the transformative power of fear in music production, offering insights into overcoming creative and industry challenges. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, he reveals how fear can fuel innovation and success in the evolving music landscape.
What Can Golf Teach Us About Production Music?
Join me in this exciting episode as I introduce Shane Jensen, a distinguished member of the 52 Cues Family. Shane is not only a talented musician but also a former professional golfer. We delve into how his experiences on the golf course have enriched his musical journey. Discover the intriguing parallels and valuable lessons that golf has brought to his artistic endeavors in the studio.
From Beats to Banjos (with Ryan Harlin)
In today's episode, I'm joined by Ryan Harlin, a familiar voice from music production tutorials on YouTube. He's a singer, songwriter, producer, music educator, and senior creative lead at Reason Studios. We'll dive into his journey into creating Reason tutorials, how Reason enhances his workflow, and his surprising passion for the banjo!
How to Handle Discouragement
Whether getting rejected by a client, ghosted by a publisher, getting placements that pay pennies to the dollar, or never getting placements at all, this gig can be pretty brutal at times. So how do we deal with that? This week, I thought it would be an excellent idea to have another 52 Cue Family roundtable to discuss handling discouragement.
A huge thanks to Jesse Carrigan, Rolf Schild, Mark Justin, Michael Sinay, Kristopher Smith, Cory Lavine, and Ralph Martin for joining me on this episode!
Expedition 52: A Year-Long Composer Quest
Your challenge? To compose one cue per week, each a stepping stone towards your personal summit. Whether you are a seasoned production music composer or just beginning your career, Expedition 52 offers a platform to elevate your skills, creativity, and network.
I Just Turned 50 and I'm Just Getting Started!
Join me for my 50th birthday episode as I explore my evolution from aspiring band director to production music composer and educator. I discuss my happy 30-year marriage, career shifts, work-life balance, and personal growth insights.
Is This Festive Christmas Cue Ready for Sync?
Learn about the art of holiday music supervision in our latest podcast episode! Explore the nuances of Christmas composition, from choir sounds to track energy, with Dave Kropf.
A Library wants my cue! What now?
Today, we're exploring what happens after a library accepts your cue. We'll cover contract management, detail deliverables like file formats and metadata, and examine the library's role in distribution and marketing. Additionally, we'll discuss the patience needed as your music establishes itself in the industry.
Is This Synthwave Cue Ready for Sync?
Is my cue ready for sync? Discover the art of synth wave music as we dissect 'Weekend Warrior' by Jakob Forslund. Unearth the magic of the 'Take on me' drums style and the potential of light side chaining.
The Classically Trained Synthesist (with Jameson Nathan Jones)
What does it take to find fulfillment in the music production industry? Listen to our in-depth conversation with composer Jameson Nathan Jones on balancing artistic integrity and commercial demands.
6 Career Lessons I Learned from Star Trek
Star Trek is more than just an entertainment franchise; it's a trove of valuable life lessons. The series offers timeless wisdom about embracing diversity, being adaptable, and fostering alliances – lessons that are crucial for a successful music career.
The Power of Gratitude, Grace, and Forgiveness (with Shannon Kropf)
The transformative power of gratitude, positivity, and forgiveness is undeniable. These principles wield immense influence in our lives, shaping our personal and professional journeys. Shannon and Dave Kropf delve into the significance and power these concepts hold.
Is This Dark Comedy Cue Ready for Sync?
Join me as we check out if a dark dramedy cue from 52 Cues Friend Subscriber Alan Moore, is ready for sync!
How To Think Like a Publisher (with Jason Rudd)
Publishers and library owners play a critical role in finding homes for our cues. Building relationships with these folks is a mission critical skill for any sync music composer. Jason Rudd, an executive producer for award-winning catalog Level 77 Music, offers perspective from the other side of the business.
Is This Epic Hip-Hop Cue Ready for Sync?
Join me as we check out if an epic orchestral hip-hop cue from 52 Cues Community Member, Karsten Wilck, is ready for sync!
Key Insights: Understanding Musical Modulation (with Shannon Kropf)
Learn to spice up your cues with modulations that won't make editors freak out. Join Shannon Kropf as she shows us how to utilize creative key changes to keep cues compelling!
Open to all 52 Cues Friends and Family Subscribers!
Dramedy Cue Review
Join me as a give feedback on a spy dramedy cue by 52 Cues Neighbor Subscriber, Simon Tong!
I Suck at Guitar (and That’s OK)!
Have you ever wondered why picking up a new instrument feels like unlocking a superpower? In this episode, I explore how immersing myself in the world of guitar has reinvigorated music’s magic, sparking a sense of exploration and creativity that has been profoundly transformative!
Coming Up Through the Ranks with Guest Jonas Friedman
Name-brand composers often employ teams of ghost writers and composers assistants to help get their projects over the finish line. While an accomplished film/TV composer himself, Jonas Friedman joins me today to talk about his experiences in the industry and how often times paying your dues can really pay off.