Appointed as the first BCMM Ambassador of Media Music
The Professional Association for Composers of Media Music (BCMM) has appointed composer and producer Stephen Emmer as Ambassador of Media Music. The award was presented during the General Meeting at the STMPD Studios in Amsterdam. It is the first time that BCMM has awarded this honorary title.
Emmer is regarded as one of the most important Dutch creators in the field of media music. He was one of the first in the Netherlands to make composing television theme tunes and media music a full-time profession. For years, his work could be heard daily on both public and commercial broadcasters. For instance, he composed music for the NOS Journaal, RTL Nieuws, and RTL Boulevard, among others. According to BCMM, at the height of his career, his music could be heard somewhere on Dutch television every seven minutes, according to estimates.
With this award, BCMM aims not only to honour Emmer's extensive oeuvre but also his role as a professional ambassador. Emmer gave lectures, workshops, and guest lectures at institutions including the HKU, art academies, and conservatories, thereby contributing to the visibility and professionalisation of the field.
The appointment coincides with Emmer's decision to withdraw from active media music practice. He intends to focus more on independent musical work from now on, including projects such as Recitement, in which music, language, and international collaborations come together. However, according to BCMM, he will remain involved with the association, including in advocacy and mentoring young composers.
In his thank-you speech, Emmer also appealed to fellow professionals and clients. He asked composers to hold fast to their individuality and not to start sounding like AI music. Towards broadcasters and clients, he emphasised the importance of providing space for Dutch craftsmanship. He also warned against clients claiming copyright. According to Emmer, this undermines the very existence of media composers.