How Much Does It Cost to Commission a Composer?

Having a composer write original music for your film, advert, corporate video, game or personal project will bring the project to life but it’s worth considering how to budget this into your overall project finances.

This depends on several factors, including the length of the music, its complexity, how much needs to be recorded live (as opposed to using VSTs) and how the finished recording will be used (in terms of licensing).

Commissioning original music doesn't necessarily mean spending thousands of pounds. A short piano piece may be relatively affordable, while a full orchestral soundtrack involving professional musicians, recording sessions and extensive revisions will require a larger budget.

What Is the Average Cost of Commissioning a Composer?

There is no universal price for commissioned music. As a broad UK guide, a simple bespoke composition might cost a few hundred pounds, while more involved projects can run into several thousand pounds or more but it’s worth breaking down what the scope of your project requires in terms of writing hours, production hours and studio time. Most composers will be flexible with budget as long as they feel like their time is valued. A short piece for a small business video, for example, will usually require less work than a 60-minute film score. Similarly, music created using virtual instruments may be more economical than a composition requiring a live string quartet or full orchestra. That said, the hybrid approach with VSTs blended with recorded instruments is a well trod way around this and there are plenty of musicians who can record overdubs for your project, making a single player sound like a full orchestra, or part of it.

Can I commission a composer on a small budget?

Absolutely. Discuss your budget at the beginning of the process. A composer may be able to create something effective using a solo piano, a small instrumental arrangement or a shorter musical theme rather than a large ensemble.

What Factors Affect the Price?

Several considerations influence the final cost:

• Length and complexity: A short musical ident requires less writing than a complete soundtrack.

• Instrumentation: Solo piano, electronic textures and virtual instruments can be less expensive than hiring live performers.

• Recording and production: Studio time, mixing, mastering and musician fees can increase the budget.

• Revisions: Multiple rounds of changes may require additional time and should be agreed upon in advance. Most composers agree to two further sets of revisions but it’s worth saying here that this doesn’t mean complete rewrites (as that is a change in scope) but more to fit changing cuts in projects.

• Usage rights: Commercial advertising, broadcasting and other uses may affect the licensing terms and overall fee.

Does a composer charge by the minute of music?

Sometimes we charge per minute, but not always. Some composers price music by its finished duration, while others provide a project-based quote reflecting the creative work, production requirements and intended usage - it really depends on what you’re after. More often than not, the project has a set budget and a composer needs to write and produce a suitable amount of music to that amount of money. It’s all doable but requires a detailed discussion in advance between Director, Producer and Composer.

Is Commissioned Music More Expensive Than Library Music?

Library music can be a cost-effective option, particularly for projects with limited budgets or straightforward requirements. However, commissioning original music gives you greater creative control and the opportunity to develop a distinctive musical identity.

Do I own the music after commissioning a composer?

No. Copyright ownership and licensing depend on your agreement with the composer. Clarify whether you receive an exclusive licence, a limited licence or a copyright assignment before work begins. In terms of royalties (certainly under UK law), the writer will always retain a minimum of 50% of the writers share of all of their works and cannot sign that to other entities.

How Do I Get an Accurate Quote?

Start by explaining your project, the intended audience, the musical style you want and where the music will be used. Reference tracks, a video draft or a short creative brief can help a composer understand your vision.

How long does commissioned music take to produce?

A short piece may take days or a week, while a complex soundtrack can take months. The schedule depends on the scope of the project, feedback and recording requirements.

Commission Original Music for Your Project

The cost of commissioning a composer ultimately depends on what you want to achieve. Whether you need subtle piano music, an orchestral soundtrack or a distinctive theme for your brand, the best starting point is a conversation about your ideas and budget.

Contact Nick Pike to discuss commissioning original music for your film, advert, corporate video or creative project, and discover how bespoke composition can bring your vision to life.

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Explore More from Nick Pike

Nick Pike is a London-based composer, pianist, saxophonist, producer, and educator with over 15 years of professional experience. His music blends neoclassical piano with jazz, funk, and contemporary influences, drawing comparisons to Ludovico Einaudi, Yiruma, and Ólafur Arnalds. Alongside original compositions, Nick offers music services including scoring for film, TV, and advertising, piano and saxophone recording, arranging for strings and horns, and professional mixing and production.

Music & Albums – Original releases from solo piano to orchestral scores.

Services – Composition, recording, arranging, and production for artists, media, and brands.

Contact – Get in touch for lessons, commissions, or collaborations.