Most people wouldn’t imagine they’re the kind of person who could commission a composer. At first impression, it seems like something a particular sort of wealthy patron or trust might do. You likely don’t see yourself in their shoes…

If you’re reading the RPS website, you likely care about, or are curious about, classical music. Think of the music you love, think of a particular piece that matters to you. Alongside the musician who created it, there was almost certainly somebody else who supported that musician’s livelihood, giving them the means they dearly needed to make it happen.  

History may suggest this was often emperors or dowagers, but in many instances it was people of regular means like yourself. Even here at the RPS, the funds our founders gathered to commission Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, Mendelssohn’s ‘Italian’ Symphony and countless other chamber and orchestral works came from the subscriptions of concert-goers no different from concert-goers like you. Imagine how those people would feel today, knowing they’d helped bring something to life that stood the test of time and brought such joy to so many.

Even the term ‘commissioning’ may sound foreboding, suggesting a complex or expensive endeavour, when it need not be either. Let us light the way. 

A new piece of music of any scale could be just the thing to celebrate or commemorate someone you love, or to add a unique and memorable touch to a special occasion like a birthday, anniversary, or a community event. Equally, you may be part of a community choir, orchestra, band or ensemble, and like the idea of adding to your repertoire with something written especially for you.

A request to write something that encapsulates something personal like this can be particularly fulfilling for a composer, and they are sure to draw fuel and inspiration from meeting you to talk about what’s inspired your gesture. Such an encounter is sure to be illuminating for you too: for all the music we love, how often do classical audiences get to meet and engage with the composers who write it? Imagine being able to say you met the likes of Edward Elgar or Lili Boulanger. The opportunity to meet their future counterparts is yours for the taking.

One of the joys in a prospect like this is that you’re not only making something special for a moment in your own life: you’re making a charitable gesture in helping a composer who is sure to show you their gratitude. You’re also bringing into the world a piece that could go on to have a life of its own, performed multiple times in unexpected places, for the enjoyment of countless more people, taking with it – wherever it goes – an acknowledgement that you set it on that journey. What a gesture to make. That in itself could be enough impetus for you, without an occasion of your own to get it going. 

If you find you have even modest means and interest in doing something like this, given our 200-year pedigree bringing new music to life, who better than the RPS to help you make it happen?

Our dedicated team is perfectly placed talk you through the possibilities. We can tell you about and introduce you to a range of composers, from fresh talents starting out in their careers to some of the nation’s leading luminaries, including noted RPS Award-winners. You may have a composer in mind but not know how to approach them: we can certainly help you with that. Equally if you share with us your reasons for wanting to commission something, and any initial ideas you may have, we will be so pleased to chat to you about next steps, telling you about a range of composers who might particularly suit your interests, helping you set about approaching them, and advising you on useful things to keep in mind as you go. If you’d like us to manage the commission for you, given our expertise in dealing with composers, managers and publishers, we’re happy to talk about doing that too.

To inspire readers, we plan to share the stories of other members of the public who have set about commissioning a composer themselves. If you’re someone who’s done this, please let us know.

Click here to read the story of RPS Member Carol Nixon, based in Wales, whose first foray has led her to commission several works for a noted ensemble with whom she’s established a lasting rapport. 

If you’re interested in potentially commissioning a composer, we’d be so pleased to hear from you and help you on our way. Get in touch using the contact form linked here.

The Royal Philharmonic Society – a registered charity – has been at the heart of music for over 200 years, creating opportunities for musicians to excel, and championing the vital role that music plays in all our lives.

Through our programme of grants, commissions, professional development and performance opportunities, we help many performers and composers overcome barriers to progress and fulfil their potential. Through the annual RPS Awards – described by The Sunday Times as ‘the biggest night in UK classical music’ – we celebrate musical accomplishments UK-wide and tell a vital story of what music-makers do for the benefit of others. Through RPS Membership and our new talks and events, we aim to cultivate greater pride and curiosity in classical music. Through all our endeavours, we are dedicated to proving classical music’s rightful and powerful place in society.

To discover more about how you can join our cause, click here.