Commissions
Give Voice to a Moment. Commission a New Work.
For any occasion (or no occasion at all), commissioning creates a work that is shaped by your ensemble and your story.
Commission a Work
Why Commission a Piece of Music?
I write music with your sound, your space, and your purpose in mind.
You might commission a work to:
- Mark a significant anniversary
- Dedicate a new space or building
- Honor the memory of a loved one, colleague, or patron
- Add fresh and meaningful repertoire to a sacred or concert program
- Create something enduring for the students, singers, or players in your care
- Be recognized in the published score as the commissioning ensemble
More than a piece of music, a commission becomes a keepsake of time.
Commission a Work
Who Can Commission a Work?
Anyone with a memory to share, a moment to honor, or a community to celebrate. I write for:
Choirs, schools, churches, and performing arts programs
Individuals, educators, conductors, and student groups
Community ensembles, professional theaters, and sacred music ministries
Whether you lead a large ensemble or a small group of dedicated performers, we can shape something meaningful together.
What else goes into
a commission?
Every commission includes:
- A consultation to understand your ensemble’s context and goals
- Ongoing communication throughout the writing process
- A virtual or in-person meeting with your ensemble when possible
You may also choose to include:
- Original poetry by Mark A. Boyle, written in conversation with your ensemble
- On-site residency or rehearsal visits, tailored to your location and schedule
These additions deepen the collaborative nature of the work and often become highlights of the experience.
Recent Commissions
Vox Philia
David A. McConnell, Artistic Director
Cantus Novus
W. Edward McCall, Artistic Director
Susquehanna University Choir
Amy Voorhees, Director of Choral Acrtivities
Newtown Middle School Choir
Mark Dolan, Choir Director
Pittsburgh Compline Choir
Mark A. Boyle, Director of Music
Central Dauphin High School
John Madas, Choir Director
What is Involved With Pricing a Composition?
Commission pricing is based on several factors, including:
- The length and scope of the work
- The number and type of performers involved
- The timeline for delivery
- Whether original text will be created
- Travel, residency, or rehearsal involvement, if requested
- Budget considerations of the commissioning ensemble
Once we discuss these elements, I’ll provide a clear proposal and contract outlining scope, schedule, payment terms, premiere details, and potential for future publication.
Commission a Work
Incredibly responsive, with clear communication throughout the process.
I have commissioned from Peter several times—once for an advanced church handbell piece, and later for a middle school choral work. He was incredibly responsive, with clear communication throughout the process. He was sensitive to the specific needs of both ensembles. We now not only have special new musical works, but also invaluable memories and experiences as part of the composition process.
— Peter “PJ” Heckman, Choir Director, Pond Road Middle School
Ready? Let's Begin.
If you’re considering a commission, I’d love to hear your vision. Let’s explore what we might create together.
Start a Commission Inquiry