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I’ve worn a lot of hats in the music world, but the one I‘ve worn the most, and also enjoyed the most is being a string arranger. So, what is string arranging, and what is a string arranger? String arranging/arranger is a term used mostly in the record industry. A similar term used more often in the film/television industry is orchestrator. In reality most string arrangers are also orchestrators, and vice versa.

But string arranging is a specific term applied to someone who creates string (and other instruments) arrangements for recordings (albums), often as a “sweetener” which is a term for recording the strings after the rhythm section (band) has been recorded.

One thing I want to say is that string arranging is a creative work.

It’s not just making the printed “parts” (copying or transcribing) for the players. Arranging (be it strings, or any other instruments) is basically composing, but in a collaborative way. You (as the arranger) are in reality a “co” composer, but, because of the copyright laws, and other things, you’re not usually entitled to royalties for such work. There are always exceptions, and everything can be negotiable, but generally, arranging for recording (as a sweetening arranger) is a work-for-hire task. But, that does not mean it is a less creative task!

I’ve always held the view that arranging is not a lesser skill than composing. In many ways, it’s a skill that requires more knowledge. Most composers throughout history were also arrangers. Many used folk tunes, chant, and other melodies as a starting point.

Just about any composing technique can be used as an arranging technique, of course, depending on the project.

Now, having said the above, let me add: I personally believe an arrangement, even just a string arrangement, can contribute greatly to the success of a song. But, I don’t believe a great arrangement can save a bad song! This is a general statement, but, coming after many years of doing arranging. None the less, unless you’re a big name, you’re hired to add your arrangement and not critique the song (if you want to keep the gig!)

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