When I Sad NO to Warner Brothers
What I learned from this challenging experience is the importance of embracing unconventional opportunities, especially when faced with rejection. Taking control of my own publishing path ultimately led to greater success, highlighting the value of adaptability and seizing opportunities in the digital age.
Read the story below.
In 2000, I attended the Frankfurt Book Fair in a final effort to publish my book “El Arreglo Un Puzzle de Expresion Musical,” which had been rejected by major Spanish publishers. To my surprise, international publishers specializing in music education were impressed by my work, a stark contrast to the reception I received in Spain. Within hours, Warner Brothers offered me an international deal with a 7% royalty rate.
I thought to myself, “Why are they so eager, and where do they sell?” I decided to investigate by following up on some of their books and discovered they were sold in specialized music libraries across Spain, the U.S.A, Central, and South America. Since there were only four such shops in Spain, I estimated there might be around 100 similar shops worldwide. That’s when the idea struck me: “What if I publish it, distribute it to all these shops, and aim for a 50% share of the sales price?”
And so, I published it myself, covering the printing costs. I collaborated with a well-known local company in Barcelona named Bosch Music, which happened to be my neighbors. Together, we initiated the distribution process.
It went very well. Furthermore, I now offer it by publishing on demand; the book is published where the client lives. This means there are no storage costs and transport costs are down to a minimum. So, from the original 7%, I was able to distribute to the same shops and market as Warner Brothers, for a 43% greater final income.
The book has been in the market for 15 years and is still selling. I do not wish to put it into the digital world as it would be instantly hacked. Now, if someone wants to scan 400 pages and place it on the net they will definitely receive my compliments
It went very well. Furthermore, I now offer it through print-on-demand; the book is published where the client lives. This means there are no storage costs, and transport costs are minimized. So, from the original 7%, I was able to distribute to the same shops and market as Warner Brothers, resulting in a 43% increase in final income.
The book has been in the market for 15 years and continues to sell. I have chosen not to make it available digitally to prevent potential hacking. Now, if someone wishes to scan 400 pages and share it online, they will certainly earn my compliments.
In summary, authors can now achieve better outcomes than major publishers thanks to the internet.