Comfortable writing for acoustic instruments and using established forms. | Might approach new projects with a pencil-and-paper sketch or notation software.

May rely on harmonic or formal planning before building out a piece.

May prefer to refine and polish material before moving to the next section. | | Tinkerer | Alchemist | Strength in synthesis, sound design, and creating original textures.

Comfortable integrating non-traditional tools, instruments, or styles. | Might prefer starting from a blank DAW project rather than a template.

May use sounds, textures, or processing chains to spark musical ideas.

Experiments with unconventional techniques or blends genres in their work | | Producer | Artisan | Proficient in modern production, mixing, and hybrid scoring workflows.

Skilled at polishing tracks and presenting finished, professional audio. | Might build ideas by layering grooves, harmonies, or textures directly in the DAW.

Often focuses on fine details of mix and balance.

May naturally think about projects in terms of “deliverables” and production goals. | | Designer | Architect | Strong in technical integration, adaptive scoring, and middleware.

Skilled in collaborative workflows and communication within teams.

Able to consider the “big picture,” connecting technical execution with narrative and emotional goals. | Might think in terms of systems and frameworks when planning a project.

May gravitate toward roles that involve coordinating between creative and technical collaborators.

Often comfortable balancing multiple perspectives — artistic, technical, and narrative — in decision-making. | | Storyteller | Bard | High media literacy and strong sense of dramatic and emotional function in music.

Skilled at aligning musical choices with story, symbolism, or narrative needs. | Might start a project by analyzing narrative beats or emotional arcs.

Often uses references or media examples to frame creative decisions.

May prioritize clarity of dramatic intention over technical complexity. | | Generalist | Explorer | Balanced skill set across multiple areas, able to adapt to a range of contexts.

Comfortable moving between acoustic, electronic, and hybrid approaches. | Might switch tools or methods depending on the project.

Often drawn to trying new techniques or workflows.

May thrive when balancing multiple projects or collaborating in varied roles. |