I've been wondering lately, after seeing some movies with orchestral/ symphonic soundtracks that impressed me, who plays on these recordings? Do they have specific orchestras, or do they just hire big groups of pro musicians for each specific session? What does a person have to do to get into this business, i.e. what level do you need to play at, what kind of education, experience, age, etc... Do these guys do it as a full time job or just a 'gig here and there' sort of thing in addition to a regular gig? Whats the pay like? I know nothing about it, and had never really thought about it before. Anyone?
The Seattle Symphony does a lot of film work. And lately there has been a lot done in Prague. You have to be good enough to get a Symphony job. I.E. Years of lessons and rounds of auditions. Film work isn't an easy field to break into, but it does pay well. Check the AF of M in your town, or the local musician's union (outside North America). The rates are published for anyone to see.