Commissioning

Work on commission has been at the heart of composers’ output for centuries, and there are many masterpieces which may not have been written if it weren’t for patrons and commissioners. There are many reasons why a person or group might wish to commission a new piece of music. By commissioning new work, ensembles can not only support the creation of new music, but have works crafted to their particular strengths and values, both in terms of musical style and text or themes. Commissions are also often facilitated by foundations or organizations, or by individuals who wish to support a particular composer or performer, or even commission a work as a gift or in honor of a loved one. Multiple individuals and groups can also band together and commission a new work by consortium – a “win-win” situation for all involved. Overall, commissioning is a great way to engage yourself or your ensemble in the creation of brand new music which might not otherwise exist.

Over the course of my career, I have completed over thirty commissions for ensembles ranging from string quartets to community choruses. For composers, there is nothing so rewarding as working with real live performers, and others who have as much passion for creating new music as we do. If you think you might be interested in commissioning a piece, or have any questions about this process, please do contact me so we can have a chat!

Some past commissions examples…

Parandegaane Mohaajer (Migrating Birds) for Negar Afazel and Peabody Camerata
The Watcher of the Wood for Chor Leoni and The Leonids
Breathe Free for Westminster Williamson Voices
Papilionum for The Glasgow School of Art Choir
Uprooted for The Esoterics

Fees and timeline

In general, for a shorter work (c. 5 minutes or less), six months to a year is a good timeframe from signing of a commissioning agreement to delivery of the new piece. For a longer work, or a chamber or large-ensemble instrumental work, a longer timeframe may be appropriate.

Fees for commissioning projects are always open to negotiation, to a point. I am fully aware and respect that commissioning new music can be a financial strain on any group or individual, and I always aim to come to an agreement that works for everyone. If you have a particular amount budgeted for a commission or a “hard limit,” it is always helpful for us composers to know this as part of the conversation, and again, I always wish to come to an arrangement that works for everyone.

To give an idea of specifics: my standard rate for unaccompanied or piano/organ accompanied choral works is c. $1000 per minute of music.

Industry standard practice is to pay 50% of the commission fee upon signing an agreement and 50% upon delivery of the piece, but I am not committed to any particular fee structure, provided that some sort of down payment is received. For instance, monthly or quarterly payment plans may work particularly well for individuals.

The first step is always a conversation about the kind of work you might be interested in, so please do not hesitate to reach out!