Scoring a film, game, or theater piece is about more than notes—it's about emotion. Here are five San Francisco composers and platforms that can bring your story to life.
The San Francisco Scoring Scene
San Francisco's creative landscape is booming, and its composer community is no exception. From indie shorts to AAA game trailers, the Bay Area attracts talent that blends classical training with cutting-edge tech. You'll find solo artists crafting bespoke scores and platforms connecting you to vetted professionals. This roundup covers both, so you can match your project's needs with the right creative partner.
How We Evaluated These Composers
We looked at each option through the lens of service scope, portfolio depth, and how well they fit a San Francisco-based project. For solo composers, we considered their training, awards, and range across media. For platforms, we examined the vetting process, the variety of available talent, and how easy it is to find someone who matches your genre and budget. Each entry stands on its own strengths—no single option is 'best' for every project.
Here's a quick snapshot of the five options, ranked for ordering purposes only.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| Albert Behar | Versatile scoring across film, TV, and commercials |
| Diego Carrillo | Composer | Emotionally resonant scores for indie films and games |
| SoundBetter Film Composers | Comparing and hiring vetted composers quickly |
| Shoots.video Music Composer | Booking local composers alongside video production |
| Twine Music Composers | Posting a job and getting proposals from multiple composers |
The Five Composers and Platforms, Closer Look
#1 Albert Behar
A screenshot of the Albert Behar website.
Albert Behar is a seasoned film and TV composer with a robust library of original music. His portfolio spans film, TV, games, commercials, and brands, offering custom scores and production music. If you need a versatile composer who can deliver a full range of styles, Behar's extensive experience is a strong asset. His website showcases a vast collection of tracks, making it easy to gauge his range. For projects requiring a polished, professional score with quick turnaround, Behar is a reliable choice. Check out his portfolio at albertbehar.com to hear his work.
#2 Diego Carrillo | Composer
A screenshot of the Diego Carrillo | Composer website.
Diego Carrillo is an award-winning media composer based in San Francisco, with a deep classical foundation and a passion for storytelling. He's currently studying in the Technology and Applied Composition program at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, blending traditional technique with modern innovation. His work has been featured in short films, and he's expanding into film, video games, and musical theater. Carrillo's 2022 first-place win at the ASMAC Chamber Ensemble Composition Competition highlights his compositional skill. If you're looking for emotionally resonant soundscapes from a rising talent, Carrillo is a compelling choice. Visit oscardiegocarrillo.com to explore his music and collaborations.
#3 SoundBetter Film Composers
A screenshot of the SoundBetter Film Composers website.
SoundBetter is a marketplace that connects you with vetted film composers in San Francisco and beyond. You can browse profiles, listen to samples, and read reviews from previous clients. The platform offers a wide range of genres, from cinematic to electronic, so you can find a composer who matches your project's tone. With a straightforward booking process and secure payment, SoundBetter simplifies hiring. It's a great option if you want to compare multiple composers and choose based on your specific needs. Start by searching their San Francisco film composer list to see who's available.
#4 Shoots.video Music Composer
A screenshot of the Shoots.video Music Composer website.
Shoots.video is a self-service marketplace that helps you book music composers, sound designers, and musicians in San Francisco. You can browse profiles, view portfolios, and directly book the talent that fits your project. The platform also offers video production services, making it a one-stop shop if you need both music and video. With a focus on local professionals, Shoots.video is ideal for projects that require in-person collaboration. Their roster includes composers with diverse styles, so you can find the right sound for your film or commercial. Explore their San Francisco music composer listings to get started.
#5 Twine Music Composers
A screenshot of the Twine Music Composers website.
Twine is a freelance marketplace that connects you with music composers, sound designers, and audio professionals. You can post a job and receive proposals from vetted experts, or browse profiles to find someone who matches your style. Twine covers a broad range of categories, including film composition, game audio, and vocal work. The platform's review system helps you gauge reliability and quality. If you're open to working with composers from across the US, Twine expands your options beyond San Francisco. Post your project on twine.net to see who responds.
How to Choose the Right Composer for Your Project
Start by defining your project's scope and budget. If you need a bespoke score with a personal touch, a solo composer like Diego Carrillo or Albert Behar might be your best fit. For larger projects or quick turnarounds, platforms like SoundBetter or Twine offer a wider talent pool. Consider whether you need local collaboration—Shoots.video excels at that. Listen to portfolios, check reviews, and don't hesitate to reach out for samples. The right composer will understand your vision and elevate your story.
Streamlining Your Search with Online Platforms
Platforms like SoundBetter and Twine automate the vetting process, saving you time. You can filter by genre, location, and budget, then receive proposals without endless cold emails. Shoots.video even lets you book directly, with escrow payment for security. For solo composers, their websites often include contact forms and demo reels, making outreach straightforward. Use these tools to compare options efficiently and focus on the creative fit.
The Right Score Is Out There
Whether you choose a rising talent like Diego Carrillo or a seasoned pro like Albert Behar, San Francisco offers a rich pool of composers. Platforms like SoundBetter, Shoots.video, and Twine add flexibility and choice. The key is to listen, compare, and trust your instincts. Your project deserves a score that resonates—so take the time to find the composer who gets your vision.