Ahead of The Ivors Classical Awards tonight (November 11), The Ivors Academy has launched new commissioning template agreements for composers working in classical music.
Created by legal experts with input from composers and commissioners, the templates cover single and co-commissioning agreements, and are available to members of The Ivors Academy.
“Clear and practical commissioning agreements help new music be created on fair and equitable terms,” said a statement.
Roberto Neri, CEO of The Ivors Academy, said: “With these new templates, we’re empowering composers to understand and protect their rights, and approach each commission with clarity and confidence. They provide a foundation for open, trusted collaboration between composers and commissioners, enabling partnerships that are rooted in fairness, respect and a shared vision.”
Commissioning agreements set out what will be written, who will premiere it, how and when fees and expenses will be paid, what can be recorded, and how the composer will be credited. It removes uncertainty, protects composers’ rights and makes expectations clear.
The agreement templates are designed to be a composer-friendly starting point – in plain English – for negotiating a commissioning agreement, with the expectation that a final version will reflect a discussion between composer and commissioner in each individual case.
This initiative will help level the playing field, giving all composers greater confidence to focus on what truly matters: creating new music
Ayanna Witter-Johnson
Ayanna Witter-Johnson, composer and board director, said: “As composers, we pour our hearts into the music – but clarity and fairness in how our work is commissioned are just as essential as the creative process itself. Commissioning agreements are vital because they empower composers to enter creative collaborations with clarity, fairness and confidence. Too often, the business side of composition feels opaque or intimidating – especially for those at earlier stages of their careers. This initiative will help level the playing field, giving all composers greater confidence to focus on what truly matters: creating new music.”
Emily Howard, composer and board director, said: “We’re really pleased to share these new commissioning templates with the composing community. For many composers – especially those taking on their first commissions – having a clear, trusted starting point can make a huge difference. These templates offer a framework that supports fairness, clarity and confidence on both sides, reflecting The Ivors Academy’s commitment to empowering music creators.”
The main points for inclusion in a contract are set out in sections which cover performance details, fees and expenses, practical delivery details, copyright, crediting and more.
Recording is handled through a detailed section recommending a way forward in securing a non-commercial reference recording. Clear timelines, exclusivity for the premiere, and suggested termination terms help prevent disputes for both sides.
Co-commissioning guidance covers roles, territories and practical payment options, including an annex for pooled or split payments.
The templates are free for core and professional members of The Ivors Academy and can be accessed in the members’ hub. A member webinar on November 25 explores classical commissioning in more detail.
