Commissions

Commissioning a piece of music is a unique opportunity to create a musical work designed specifically to fit your ensemble and occasion while making a lasting contribution to the repertoire.

Commissioning a Piece of Music: Frequently Asked Questions

How much time is needed?

Typically six months to a year depending on what other commitments are on Mark’s writing calendar.

How do we begin?

The process begins with a dialogue about what kind of piece you’d like for Mark to create, including any preferences about text, tune, specifics of voicing, range, instrumentation, and difficulty.

Will I receive updates as the piece is being created?

Yes! I like to send an initial sample of text if original text is being created, then usually send a melodic sketch sometime after that so you can see how the piece is taking shape. These include opportunities for feedback so that we ensure a good fit for your work.

What does the final copy look like?

When the piece is complete, you will receive a computer-engraved manuscript as a pdf file and can duplicate as needed for your singers.

Will the piece be published?

Most commissions are, but because publication involves a third party, it cannot be guaranteed. Once the piece is completed it will be submitted to an appropriate publisher for review.

What are the financial arrangements?

Once we decide the general parameters of the piece (length, voicing, instrumentation) you will receive a quote for the commission fee. If you decide to proceed with the work, a commission agreement will be drafted for both parties to sign so there is a clear understanding of deadlines, cost, and the basic elements of the piece. Half of the commission fee is due up front to secure space on the writing calendar, and the remainder of the fee is due upon delivery of the manuscript.

A Look Inside a Few Recent Projects:

Beyond the Years

SATB with piano
Heritage Music Press 15/3686H

Commissioned by the Stillman MS Consorzio Choir, Tammie Garza-Polanco, director, for their TMEA Convention performance.

This commission required something highly artistic for an extremely talented group of singers, and something that was also deeply meaningful for singers and audience alike. Paul Laurence Dunbar’s poem fit the bill perfectly, reminding us that although we may face difficult times, the grieving skies will clear, and a better day is yet to come, “beyond the years.”

Listen below:

How Can I Keep from Singing

SSA, a cappella
Choristers Guild CGE 298

Commissioned for Voices of the Valley in Columbus GA, Michelle Herring Folta, director, for their concert tour to England.

Michelle wanted a piece that could be performed a cappella in an English cathedral, and something that would showcase the treble voices of her chorus. The opening sequence employs a waterfall effect with the voice parts gently cascading in harmony, one after the other. Then the lyrical folk melody is traded between sections of the choir as the piece progresses and the harmonies thicken. The ending recalls the cascading motion of the opening section, gently coming to rest with a quiet, closing statement from the altos.

Grand Canyon Sunrise

SATB with piano
Heritage Music Press 15/3407H

Commissioned for the Ohio MEA District III High School Honor Choir

With this commission I was given free rein to create whatever I was inspired to write. For those of us in the creative field, that can be both freeing and frightening all at the same time! I turned to the natural world, a frequent source of inspiration for my music, and decided to try to depict the moment of sunrise at the majestic Grand Canyon – one of the most beautiful sights on earth. The piece begins with darkness, then swirling winds, and we gradually hear the sunrise depicted in the expanding choral motifs, then follow the sun as it rises and shines on the canyon below. A powerful, artistic, and expressive piece, and a great way to continue celebrating the recent 100th anniversary of the founding of Grand Canyon National Park.

Ready to Create for Your Group?