Recorded Workshops


Welcome to the Music Arrangers Guild of Australia's Library of  Recorded Workshops – a treasure trove of knowledge for music professionals and enthusiasts alike! Our past workshops cover a wide range of topics, from mastering notation software and exploring advanced arranging techniques to gaining insights from legendary industry professionals. Whether you're looking to enhance your skills, stay updated with the latest trends, or connect with fellow music arrangers, you'll find something valuable here.

Please note that these exclusive workshops are available only to MAGA members and their invited friends. If you are a member, please click on the Access Recording or Material links and login to your account when prompted. If you are already logged in go to the "File Archive" section under "Resources".

Join us as a friend or full member to unlock access to this unparalleled collection of learning opportunities and become part of a vibrant community dedicated to the art of music arranging!
 

Notation Software

  • Dorico for Finale Users with Michael Rohanek (2hrs) - Access Recording 
    Aimed at beginners starting out in Dorico, especially Finale users moving across to Dorico.

  • Dorico Webinar with Michael Rohanek - Part 2 (2hrs) - Access Recording
    Delving deeper into layout and scores.

  • Introduction to Dorico with Michael Rohanek - Part 1 (2hrs 30m) - Access Recording
    A comprehensive introduction to Dorico.

Music Librarians

  • Insights From an Orchestral Librarian with Alastair McKean (1hr 20m) - Access Recording - Access Material
    Discussion on professional symphony orchestra practices, rights, and musicians’ preferences.

Arranging

Jazz Arranging

  • Jazz Brass Arranging with Matt Amy (1hr 30m) - Access Recording - Access Material
    Demystifying jazz brass arranging.
     
  • Voicing for Big Band with Drew Zaremba (1hr 20m) - Access Recording
    Techniques for writing for trombones, trumpets, saxes, and integrating rhythm sections.
     
  • Arranging for Jazz Combo with Drew Zaremba (50m) - Access Recording
    Creating form, development, and orchestration beyond symbols and slashes.

Brass Arranging

Strings Arranging

  • Tim Davies: String Writing / Workflow Tips for Film and Commercial Arrangers (2hrs) - Access Recording
    String writing and workflow tips. 

General Arranging

  • Zoom Interview / Q&A with Daryl McKenzie (1hr 30m)  - Access Recording
    Insights from a legendary arranger and trombone player.
     
  • George Brodbeck Talk – Sydney (1hr 30m) - Access Recording
    "Helpful Hints to Fearless Music Arranging."

Musicals, Film, and Stage

  • John Foreman and Anthony Barnhill - Midnight the Musical (1hr 5m) - Access Recording
    Insights into creating the musical “Midnight.”

  • Zoom Q&A With Grammy Nominee Chris Walden (1hr 15m) - Access Recording
    Discussing his career, arranging, and the Pacific Jazz Orchestra.

  • Jessica Wells: Arranging for HUSH (1hr 20m) - Access Recording
    Deconstructing arrangements for the album “Nightlight.”

  • Arranging for the APRA Screen Music Awards with Jessica Wells (1hr 45m) - Access Recording
    Processes involved in creating arrangements for the awards, including transcriptions from audio.

Legal, Contracts, and Copyright 

  • How Do You Keep the Music Playing with Greg Flood (1hr) - Access Recording
    Estate planning for musical assets.

  • Copyright and Contracts - Why It Matters with Greg Flood (1hr 30m) - Access Recording - Access Material
    Discussion on the importance of copyright and contracts.

Interviews with Arranging Legends

  • Zoom Interview with John Foreman OAM (1hr 15m) - Access Recording
    Informal interview with John Foreman, covering his career and taking questions.
     
  • Chong Lim AM - Arranger to the Stars (1hr 40m) - Access Recording
    Career highlights and insights from MAGA Patron Chong Lim AM.
     
  • Ed Wilson Interview by George Bruno and Ross Maio (20m) - Access Recording
    Insights from one of Australia’s renowned arrangers.
     
  • Arranging and Working in LA with Tim Davies (2hrs) - Access Recording
    Living and working in Los Angeles as an arranger.
     
  • Paul Murtha Workshop – Melbourne (2hrs) - Access Recording
    Insight into writing for mixed ensembles and adapting jazz into concert band settings.