Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Music Composition for a Series (Original Dramatic Score)

The Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Music Composition for a Series (Original Dramatic Score) is a prestigious award presented annually by the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (ATAS) to recognize outstanding achievement in original dramatic scoring for a television series. It is one of the awards given for excellence in music composition at the Primetime Emmy Awards.

This award recognizes the composer(s) responsible for creating the original musical score that enhances the dramatic narrative and emotional impact of a television series episode. The criteria for judging typically includes the originality, effectiveness, and suitability of the music in supporting the storyline, characters, and overall tone of the episode.

To be eligible, the music must be specifically composed for the series and must be original, meaning it cannot be previously released material or pre-existing compositions. The award recognizes contributions from composers, orchestrators, and music supervisors involved in the creation of the score. In some years, specific episodes are submitted for consideration.

The category has gone through name variations over the years, but the core focus remains on recognizing exceptional original dramatic scores composed for television series. The award is highly coveted among composers working in television and is a significant indicator of artistic excellence in the field. Nomination and winning the award can significantly boost a composer's career and visibility within the industry.