ECSA Creator Talk
The position of composers is under increasing pressure. The latest report by ECSA shows that buyouts, pseudo-publishing and lack of transparency are depriving composers of their rights and remuneration. Meanwhile, major producers, broadcasters, and streaming platforms are gaining more power – and the EU Copyright Directive (2019) is often sidestepped in practice.
In the Netherlands – where media music is closely tied to international players – it’s time to take concrete action. How can composers better protect themselves against unfair contracts? What legal and policy changes are needed to turn the tide? What role should film producers play in creating fairer working conditions?
This panel explores actionable steps to improve the bargaining position of composers. We discuss the ECSA’s recommendations and how to implement them in Dutch policy and practice – because fair pay can’t wait.
Nainita Desai
Composer, UKAcclaimed with three recent Emmy nominations and a recent win for The Reason I Jump, Nainita Desai is also an RTS award winner and double BIFA, Critics Choice, Ivor Novello & Cinema Eye Honors nominee. Amongst her work on various BAFTA, Academy Award, and Emmy acclaimed productions, Nainita’s current projects include Secrets Of The Penguins (Nat Geo), The Wild Ones (Apple TV+), & fantasy adventure series Nautilus (Amazon/Disney/ AMC+). Other notable scripted series include ITV Drama The Tower (Seasons 1-3), BBC series Crossfire, and SKY comedy drama Funny Woman. Feature docs include For Sama, Nocturnes, The Contestant & Netflix films: 14 Peaks, What Jennifer Did and The Deepest Breath.
Hans Everling
Chairman, BCMM & Owner, SOB Audio Imaging, NLHans Everling is the chairman of the BCMM (Beroepsvereniging Componisten Multimedia) and the owner of SOB Audio Imaging in Amsterdam. As a member of the Supervisory Board at BumaStemra since 2023, he has been involved in BumaStemra’s governance since 2012. Hans is a strong advocate for fair payment and fair practice in contract negotiations for media composers, collaborating with media companies, film and TV producers. He shares insights on the position of media composers in the Netherlands and promotes collective strength for a fairer working environment.
Marc du Moulin
Secretary General, ECSA, BEMarc du Moulin is Secretary General of ECSA (European Composer and Songwriter Alliance), which gathers 59 associations of composers and songwriters across Europe. Co-funded by the Creative Europe programme, ECSA’s core mission is to defend and promote the rights of composers and songwriters at European and international level. Marc has a comprehensive knowledge in copyright and European law, an in-depth understanding of the functioning of the creative industries and an extensive experience in European Affairs. He previously worked in Brussels for the European Film Agency Directors, the Motion Picture Association, the European Commission (DG CNECT) and for Eurocinema.
Jesper Hansen
Composer, ECSA/BFM, DKAward-winning Danish film composer who has scored films, documentaries and TV-shows primarily in Denmark, but also the UK and Russia. His music has been used in audiovisual productions in more than 100 countries, and his pieces have been performed all over Europe. He is currently working on the upcoming album The Troll and the Moon as well as a commissioned ballet Madigan set to premiere in 2027. Jesper Hansen has been a advocate for composers rights for more than 10 years, and is currently the vice-president of ECSA (European Composer and Songwriter Alliance), as well as chair of FFACE (Federation of Film and Audiovisual Composers of Europe).
This panel is co-funded by Creative Europe.
