Who makes the soundtracks for movies?

Question

What career title is it and what do you go to college for? I know a big part is knowing people but otherwise is it the director, the editor or what?

Answer 1

People that write music for films are generally known as composers. They write and conduct the music for films. But some composers are also musicians such as Danny Elfman. They may or may not play any of the instruments in the soundtrack for the film. Some composers use full live orchestras. Others use synthesizers and other electronic instruments. If you go to any college that has a good music department and learn music theory and other music courses then you should have the ability to write and perform music for films. However, as you mentioned, it is hard to get the opportunity to get into this field.