Commissioning

Roger Cichy is currently accepting commissions for new works. Prices are based on the type of ensemble, desired duration and difficulty level of the new work. If you have not commissioned a composer, it may seem like a daunting task. Hopefully, you will find the additional information on this page to help you understand the process. In my many years of accepting commissions, I have yet to have a commission be anything but positive and provide a truly unique experience for the ensemble.

Commissioning a New Work

Simply put, the overall experiences of a commissioning project are tremendous.  It is always a unique privilege to premiere a composition that has been composed specifically for your ensemble.  From the performers experiencing the creative process first hand to the ensemble taking serious responsibility for the preparation and performance of the work, commissioning a new work reaches beyond a curriculum of standard repertoire.  Many of those names that appear at the upper right hand corner of a performer’s music are real, living composers - individuals who create music for artistic endeavors.  A unique opportunity occurs when composer, the creator of a musical work, and performer, the interpreter and realizer, are brought together on an artistic project such as a commissioned work.  Having been involved in many commissioning projects both as a composer and an educator, I can ascertain that the overall encounter of a commissioning project can be one of the most unique musical experiences that you can provide your ensemble.

Contracts

A simple contract for a commission is a good idea and will cover details so both parties, the composer and commissioning organization, know what’s exactly expected of each other. The most critical items that I include in a contract are: 1) the type of musical ensemble, desired length of the piece and level of difficulty, 2) delivery date for score and parts,  3) composer's fee and payment schedule, and 4) any dedication wording that will appear on the score and parts such as "Commissioned by the Grove Lake Symphonic Band, Grove Lake, Oregon - Gene White, Director".  Manuscript and publishing rights stay in the composer's possession while the commissioning party will have the sole right to the first performance and will always be credited with being responsible for the commission.

The Premiere

The premiere of a new work is an exciting time for the performing ensemble, the community, the composer, as well as anyone representing a group that has assisted with the funding of the commission.  The composer should provide, in ample time, a biographical sketch, photo, and program notes for the piece.  Depending on the composer's availability, it is sometimes desirable to have the composer guest conduct the premiere.   If this is possible, the composer should have the chance to rehearse the piece prior to the performance. The commissioning ensemble should get the most out of its commission using social media and by contacting local media to run articles and information about the commission, the composer, and the performing ensemble prior to the concert.  A follow-up article, with photos, after the premiere can also work well to help publicize your efforts.  Make sure to recognize all groups that have contributed to the funding of the commissioned piece in the program.