FAQs about Commissioning
Why commission a new piece of music?
It is exciting to experience new music. Music can be custom created for performers, situations, or audiences. Living composers can create music that reflects and relates to our current world. Music is a living art form, evolving, questioning, searching, even entertaining.
Who commissions composers?
Usually performers (individuals or ensembles), music lovers, and arts organizations.
Who pays?
The performers, music lovers, or music organizations pay, and can often get partial or full funding.
Where can funds come from?
In my area: Canada Council, BC Arts Council, CRD Arts, foundations, special programs, your Auntie, etc.
How much does new music cost?
There are two components - paying the composer, and getting the music copied, which does not mean photocopied. (Music copying means the preparation, layout, organization, and printing of all the scores and parts with appropriate fonts, page turns, types + size of paper, binding, etc.)
Where can I find more information on commissioning?
Check out the Canadian League of Composers for some pricing guidelines for commissions, generic contracts, and more: