A music copyist, also known as a copyist, is a skilled professional who specializes in preparing written music scores and parts for musicians to read and perform from. My primary task is to create clean and accurate instrument parts, ensuring that the notations, markings, and instructions are clearly presented and easily readable.
Copyists in the day worked with handwritten scores and by hand meticulously transcribe them into a legible format. Now, most scores are computer generated using music notation software. Copyist pay close attention to details such as note values, dynamics, articulations, tempo markings, lyrics, and any other musical instructions indicated by the composer.
In addition copyists are also responsible for creating individual instrumental or vocal parts, ensuring that each musician or vocalist receives their specific sheet music. We organize the parts and layout the pages in a logical and practical manner, making it easier for performers to follow during a recording session, rehearsals, or performances.
Copyists often collaborate closely with composers, arrangers, and orchestrators, as they need to accurately interpret their intentions and translate them into written form. We may be required to make minor corrections or adjustments to the music notation based on the composer's or arranger's feedback.
With the advancement of music notation software, most copyists now use computer software programs such as Sibelius or Finale to input, edit, and format musical scores. This allows for greater efficiency, flexibility, and the ability to quickly make revisions or generate multiple copies of the music.
Overall, copyists play a crucial role in ensuring the accuracy, legibility, and professional presentation of musical scores, allowing performers to accurately interpret and bring the music to life. In the case of recording sessions for a feature film with 100 musicians plus studio costs the cost per hour adds up quickly. It’s not unusual for these extraordinary musicians to record the first take having never seen the material before - sight reading.
The copyist work contributes to the smooth execution of recording, rehearsals and performances, providing musicians with the necessary musical materials they need to perform at their best.