Roger May

The following information is intended as a brief guide to commissioning a new work but do please get in touch to ask any questions that you might have.

The benefits of commissioning new works are many:

• Publicity
• Recognition of the commissioner on the work
• Having a tailor-made piece to fit the circumstances
• Having a unique work to celebrate a particular occasion
• The excitement that is generated
• Prestige

A contract will be created by the composer to reflect the requirements, to be signed by both parties before any work begins. A 50% deposit is usually paid up front with the remaining 50% being due on completion of the commission. A guide to recommended rates can be obtained from the Musicians' Union, but there is usually plenty of room for negotiation.

Some things that you should consider when approaching a composer with a request for a new work are:

• Who the piece is for
• What the instrumentation is (including any doublings)
• How long it should be
• Whether it is a descriptive piece and if so, is there information regarding the event/place/person etc.
• When it is needed
• What the budget is

Please do not be put off if your circumstances are unusual as Roger is willing to consider all requests for music; for any occasion, ensemble or style.