FAQ | lafci

Frequently Asked Questions

The Intensive (Los Angeles)

Where should I stay?

The Intensive will be located in Hollywood (Capitol Studios) and Los Angeles (Fox Studios), California which have many hotels throughout the city. From hotels, motels and Airbnb, there are many affordable options close to the workshop within a short drive.

Which airport is closest?

Los Angeles International (LAX) airport is closest to Fox Studios. Burbank Airport (BUR) is also located in the greater Los Angeles. If coming from LAX, expect travel time to take between 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending upon traffic.

If accepted, how do I pay tuition?

Payment may be accepted via PayPal, direct check to Los Angeles Film Conducting Intensive, or via wire transfer. Please contact info@lafci.org for wire instructions.

Is there financial aid availalbe?

Financial aid is not currently available through LAFCI, however local service organizations, local arts council, or professional organizations may be of assistance.

Will transportation be provided?

Transportation will not be provided however it is anticipated that most participants will be from the Los Angeles metro area and may be able to assist with carpool.

Does my application composition need to be the same as my cue for the final demo recording session?

Composition submitted per application is only for admission consideration and does not have to be your cue for recording on the final session. The faculty recommend submissions demonstrate the applicants strongest work. Accepted applicants to the Fellow program will receive private composition review sessions with William Ross, with most participants choosing to write a new composition.

How many cues do I submit as per the application requirements?

Only one cue is needed per your application but we request three copies for our review panel.

Will my submitted application composition be returned?

Unless a self addressed and stamped envlope is received, submitted application compositions will not be returned.

How will acceptance be determined?

Acceptance will be determined primarily upon quality of compositional skill as demonstrated with submitted composition (notated score and audio file). Applicant resumé will also be considered. Quality of mock-up, score formatting, and orchestration for live ensemble will also be taken into consideration.

Are there any tips to ensure my application has the best chance possible?

Check formatting; clarity is king. Have at least four bars per page (union standard) but no more than 8. Too many bars per page can make your score cluttered and take focus away from your musical intentions.
Double check the appropriate ranges of your instrument. Many compositions are commonly written or edited with software notation programs like Sibelius or Finale and have editing suggestions about range.
Submit a cue that is written for standard orchestral instruments. It does not have to be written for full orchestra, however it helps the review panel in understanding your command of instrumentation and orchestration. Feel free to have an instrument or two dedication to a digital instrument but, if you do, have the part written out.
Have another trusted set of eyes look over your cue before submitting, it could only help.
Use the Score/Parts Formatting Recommendations document provided Articles tab of the Resource Center page to ensure your parts and score are formatted as per best practices.

If I am accepted as a fellow, what will the instrumentation be for the final demo recording session?

If accepted as a fellow, instrumentation for final session is neither to exceed 1111 3321 2Perc + Piano + Harp + Strings (8/6/6/6/2) nor 3 minutes in duration (2.5 minutes recommended to allow for more takes). Asterisks indicate one player will be available to double on the following: piccolo, English horn, bass clarinet and contra bassoon. Percussion list is as follows: timpani (4 standard drums), snare drum, bass drum, 4 concert toms, crash cymbals, suspended cymbal, gong, glockenspiel, xylophone, tambourine, triangle, and wood block. Brass section breakdown is 3 French horns, 3 trumpets, 2 tenor trombones, 1 tuba. String section breakdown is as follows: 8 first violins, 6 second violins, 6 violas, 6 celli, 2 double basses.

At the final session, will we be using clicks?

No. The final session will neither use clicks, pre-records, punches, streamers nor picture, instead will be done free with you leading the orchestra.

Summer Session (Costa Rica)

How will acceptance be determined?

This workshop is designed first, and foremost, as an extension of the The Intensive and is open to composers with priority given to LAFCI alumni.

What is the orchestra instrumentation?

2*2*2*2* 4431 Timp + 3 Perc Piano + Harp + Strings (10/8/5/6/4)

What percussion instruments will be available?

Timpani (4)
Concert snare drum
Bass drum
Crash cymbals
Suspended cymbal
Tambourine
Maracas
Bongos

Wood block
Wind chimes
Triangle
Gong
Glockenspiel
Xylophone
Chimes

Where should I stay?

Hotel accommodations will be provided per this workshop. Hotel name and details will be sent privately at a later date.