COMMISSIONING RATE CALCULATOR
A big question that seems rarely publicly discussed (and may seem somewhat mysterious) is the matter of compensation for creative work. When it comes to commissioning music, many abide by the rates as posted by the Canadian League of Composers, LINK here.
I prefer to think more about the implications of the creative's qualifications and project parameters, as each is so unique, so therefore I have created this spreadsheet calculator to help one to consider aspects of the work that will likely be discussed in negotiation with your chosen composer - and to visualize what the resultant fees *might* look like.
It is important to note that the base unit rate. albeit arbitrary, is NOT intended to be an hourly rate - but should reflect the experience of the composer, the nature of the request (original work or arrangement), the overall complexity of the request, and potential limitations of the delivery timeline. For example, the addition of a single instrument to an existing work by a relatively inexperienced composer may only be a 45, however, an original fully-orchestral piece with choir due in 2 months time by John Rutter may well be the maximum 100. It’s something to consider.
Also note:
Number of Unique Instrument Parts: ie. Soprano I, Soprano II, Piano, Flute, Percussion, all equal 1 each
Number of Sections: ie. any more than 3 parts together create a section family, ie. strings, woodwinds, brass, choir
Number of 5 minute blocks; ie. a piece of 4 min = 1 block, a piece of 14 minutes = 3 blocks
The current state of the Google sheet appears as below.
To input your own values, please use this shared link HERE.
If you see an area for improvement in this calculator, please email me.