If you're exploring opportunities to engage with new music you’ve likely come across the terms "commission" and "consortium." While they both involve the creation of new music, they differ in structure, and participation. Here’s a breakdown to help you understand these two important aspects of new music creation.
What is a Commission?
A commission is a process where an individual, organization, or ensemble hires a composer to create a new piece of music. The key features of a commission include:
Individual or Small Group Initiative: Typically, commissions are initiated by a single entity or a small group that has a specific vision or need for a new piece. This might be a solo performer, a chamber group, or an institution.
Customization: The commissioning party often works closely with the composer to develop the concept of the piece, tailoring it to their specific artistic goals, technical abilities, and preferences.
Exclusive Rights: In many cases, the commissioner has exclusive rights to premiere and perform the piece for a certain period, before it becomes available to general public.
Direct Relationship with Composer: Commissioners often have a direct, one-on-one relationship with the composer, allowing for a deep level of collaboration and communication throughout the creative process.
What is a Consortium?
A consortium is a collaborative approach to commissioning new music, where multiple performers, ensembles, or organizations come together to fund and support the creation of a new work. The key features of a consortium include:
Collaborative Effort: Unlike a single commission, a consortium involves multiple parties contributing to the commissioning fee. This shared financial responsibility makes it more affordable for participants to engage in the creation of new music.
Shared Ownership: Members of a consortium typically share the rights to premiere and perform the piece. This means that each participant gets the opportunity to be one of the first to present the new work to the public.
Diverse Input: Consortium members often provide input on the piece, influencing aspects of its development. This collaborative process can result in a more versatile and broadly appealing work.
Community Building: Consortiums foster a sense of community among participants, as they are united by a common goal of bringing new music to life. Members often interact with each other and the composer through digital collaboration spaces, sharing ideas and experiences.
Broader Impact: Because a consortium involves multiple performers and organizations, the new work is likely to be performed in various locations and contexts, reaching a wider audience and having a more significant impact on the musical landscape.
Why Participate in a Commission or Consortium?
For Commissioners: If you have a specific vision for a new work and want to collaborate closely with a composer, commissioning might be the right path for you. It offers a high level of customization and the prestige of having a work written specifically for you.
For Consortium Members: If you’re looking to be part of something larger, to share the experience and financial commitment with others, a consortium offers a unique opportunity. It allows you to contribute to the creation of new music while connecting with a community of like-minded musicians.
Both commissions and consortiums are vital to the creation of new music. They each offer different benefits and opportunities for performers and composers, playing crucial roles in shaping the future of the musical world.
Whether you’re considering commissioning a piece on your own or joining a consortium, your involvement helps ensure that new, innovative music continues to be created and shared with audiences around the world.
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