Television Music Group: Membership Requirements for the Television Academy

The Television Academy recognizes the crucial role of music in television production. This article outlines the requirements for individuals seeking membership within the Television Music Group, specifically focusing on Active and Associate membership statuses. Eligibility hinges on demonstrable experience and contributions to nationally exhibited television programs.

Membership Requirements: An Overview

The Television Academy requires specific qualifications for membership within the Television Music group, applicable to both Active and Associate levels. These requirements consider the nature of the work, the length of experience, and the scope of contribution to nationally broadcast productions. All qualifications must have been met within the four years preceding the membership application or review. Furthermore, all episodes submitted for consideration must be at least 30 minutes long, unless specifically designated as short-form programming. Credits solely from self-published programs are not acceptable for membership. Individuals with a Primetime, Daytime, or Children’s & Family Emmy nomination within the past four years, specific to this peer group, automatically qualify for Active membership.

Active Membership in the Television Music Group

Active membership signifies substantial and consistent contributions to the field of television music. Applicants for Active membership must demonstrate a minimum of two years of primary employment within the last four years in one or more of the following roles:

Composer of Original Music

Composing original music for at least ten episodes of nationally exhibited content, with a minimum aggregate instrumental cue length of 30 minutes. The music must be demonstrably unique and original for each episode. Alternatively, composing a theme for a national series also qualifies, provided the theme is an original work specifically created for the submitted show.

Music Director and Conductor

Serving as Music Director and Conductor for a minimum of ten nationally exhibited episodes. This role requires active participation in the musical process, exceeding mere supervisory duties. Those in solely supervisory roles, even with the title “Music Director,” are ineligible for Active membership but may qualify for Associate membership.

Lyricist or Composer of Special Material

Writing lyrics or composing special material for at least ten original songs that have been broadcast nationally. While exempt from the ten-episode requirement for other roles, songwriter applicants must submit at least ten original songs with accompanying cue sheets for verification.

Arranger and/or Orchestrator

Arranging and/or orchestrating music for a minimum of ten episodes of nationally exhibited content. This requires significant contribution to the final musical product aired on national television.

Music Supervisor

Music Supervisors need a minimum of twenty episodes showcasing collaboration with the Show Runner and/or the primary creative team. Their contributions must include selecting pre-existing songs for narrative purposes, supervising on-camera musical performances (if required by the script), and contributing to the creation of new songs and recordings. Only one of the two Governors in the Television Music Group can be a Music Supervisor.

Combined Credits and Body of Work Considerations

Applicants lacking the required hours in a single category can apply for consideration under Combined Credits, subject to the approval of the Music Peer Group Executive Committee. Alternatively, a significant body of work relevant to the peer group may qualify for a waiver of the standard requirements. While granting all other benefits of Active membership, the Body of Work designation excludes eligibility for running for Peer Group Governor.

Associate Membership in the Television Music Group

Associate membership offers a pathway for those with emerging experience in television music. Requirements for Associate Membership include:

• One year of employment within the last four years, with screen credit in one of the positions listed above on at least two nationally exhibited episodes or five original songs.
• One year of participation in music production (e.g., as a musician, programmer, or composer’s assistant) with a minimum of two credits.

Conclusion: Joining the Television Academy’s Music Group

The Television Academy sets clear standards for membership within its Music Group, reflecting the importance of musical contributions to the television industry. Whether pursuing Active or Associate status, applicants must demonstrate a commitment to excellence and a substantial body of work within the field. Understanding these requirements is crucial for aspiring members seeking to join this prestigious organization.