Commissioning Process
The most important factor when considering the commissioning of a piece of music is the selection of the composer. When making this decision, you need to carefully consider:
1) composer’s availability
2) specific composer’s style and adaptability to your programs needs
3) affordability
4) what will be provided by the composer
Composer’s Availability
Currently I am accepting commissions for completion averaging 2 years from this date. Advanced compositions are a little further (3 years) and easier compositions are shorter (half to full year). I do limit my commissions yearly based, in part, to the publishers needs.
Composer’s Style
Every composer has his/her own specific compositional sound and style. Selecting a composer whose musical style is complementary to your program is extremely important. If you commission a work from me, we will discuss your specific strengths and weakness, your instrumentation, your percussion section inventory, and the availability of capable soloist. In short, the piece will be written specifically for the success of your ensemble. If you and your students enjoy preparing and performing my music, then I would be a good fit for your program.
Affordability
Commission fees vary due to several factors: grade level, length, type of music and completion time, just to mention a few. Elementary/Middle School commissions are usually less costly than more advanced music due to the difference in time it takes to compose these pieces. Style of music will also affect the commission fee. A march or ballad will be shorter than a festival composition and will cost less. Composer’s fees will vary but most of my colleagues are reasonably priced in order to make the commission project affordable to schools with limited budgets.
Starting the Process
The process is officially started when an agreement is reached between the composer and the commissioning party on the scope of the work, the commission fee and the delivery date. This agreement is a binding contract of commission and will be signed by both the composer and the commissioning party. A deposit of $500 is required to complete the agreement. Once the signed agreement and the deposit are received by the composer, your commission will be added to the production scheduled. It’s that easy!
What will be provided by the composer?
The commission fee includes all part & score preparation, the right for a premier performance of the composition and one “clinic” day for the premier performance of the composition.
Want to hear more?
If you would like more information about the commissioning process, fill out the form below and I will contact you to answer any questions you may have.
"A painter paints pictures on canvas. But musicians paint their music on silence."
