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 product outcome and less on how much time it takes for me (or anyone else) to produce such work. Please feel free to use my calculator if it helps you think about aspects of the work you would like to negotiate with your chosen composer.
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 the a 45, but an original fully orchestral piece with choir due in 2 months time by John Rutter may be the maximum 100. It’s something to consider.
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.