Commission

Robert Rust

Interested in commissioning a new work? Please fill out the form below with as much detail as possible. This information helps me provide an accurate quote and timeline for your project. If you have any questions or concerns, let me know; I can be flexible. Once submitted, I will review your request and reach out to discuss the next steps and provide a formal proposal. I look forward to collaborating with you!

What to include in your description:

  • •Desired instrumentation
  • •Desired duration (in minutes)
  • •Technical difficulty/grade level
  • •Performance info (dates, venue)
  • •Budget
  • •Stylistic preferences or themes

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* Robert typically responds to quote requests within 24 hours.

FAQ

Anyone can commission music, and any type of music can be commissioned. I love working with first-time commissioners and would be thrilled to guide you through the process!

Collaborating on a new piece is an exciting process! Here is a brief overview of how we will work together:

Step 1: Reach Out

Send a message through the contact portal with your instrumentation, desired duration, budget, and the type of event you are planning.

Step 2: Consultation

We will chat (via phone, video, or email) to discuss the mood of the piece, special techniques, and payment schedules.

Step 3: The Writing Period

I will send initial sketches early on to make sure we are on the same page. You will receive further drafts as the piece progresses, and I highly encourage your collaborative feedback throughout.

Step 4: Follow-up Support

After the final delivery, I remain available to make reasonable adjustments as you rehearse.

All base pricing covers the composition of the music and digital delivery. Every commission includes:

  • •Digital delivery of the score and parts (PDFs)
  • •Custom cover art and front material (program notes, performance notes, bio)
  • •Exclusive performing rights for a limited period (usually one year from the delivery date)
  • •A perpetual performance license for future uses (simply provide a PDF of the program so I can report the performance to my royalty company)
  • •Two guaranteed digital rehearsals (up to 60 minutes each)
  • •Social media promotion for your events
The commission fee strictly covers the creation of the music. The costs of printing physical materials are separate and handled by the commissioning party. If you require physical parts instead of digital PDFs, an additional fee will be calculated. Furthermore, performing, recording, and personal appearance fees are separate from the commissioning fee and should be agreed upon in advance.

This is not a problem at all! Fees are always determined by negotiation. Generally, a percentage of the fee (25%–50%) is paid upon signing the agreement, and the remainder is paid upon the delivery of the final score. We can easily set up a monthly payment plan or schedule installments around the delivery of individual movements.

If you are looking for external funding, I am happy to provide project abstracts for grant applications. Costs can also be significantly reduced when several organizations co-commission a work together.

Under U.S. and International Copyright Law, the composer owns the commissioned work and all rights to its use. However, as the commissioner, you will have the exclusive right to give the premiere performance, as well as exclusive performance rights for your first year.

Choral configurations (SATB, SSAA, TTBB, etc.) are priced based on the number of vocal parts, exactly like instrumental ensembles. Regarding text:

  • •Original Text: Creating original text generally adds 25% to the commission fee.
  • •Text Adaptation: Adapting an existing text adds 10%–20%, depending on the extent of the alterations.
  • •Public Domain/Pre-Secured Text: There is no additional charge if the text is in the public domain or if you have already secured the rights. Please note that official permission and licenses must be obtained for the use of any existing copyrighted texts before work on the composition can begin.
  • •Wordless Vocals: There is no extra charge for vocalizations, humming, or syllabic utterances.
I thrive on unique projects and unconventional setups! Whether you're looking for an interactive sound installation, music for an experimental film, or something that doesn't fit traditional categories, I'd love to hear about it. Please use the 'Other' option in the form or reach out directly to discuss how we can bring your vision to life.

Still have questions? Get in touch directly.