Generally, I allow page length of the arrangement to determine my commission.  For example, a custom TAG that does not exceed one page (approximately 16 measures) is $75.  A short 2-page arrangement of a simple song might be $150.   A full-length custom arrangement that is 5 or more pages might be #300.  However, a final quote can only be determined when I see the sheet music, and hear your special requests and expectations. I may charge a $50 deposit to get started (once the clearance has been obtained) with the balance due upon delivery of your approved arrangement.

Original and Public Domain Songs:  Original compositions can be arranged with the permission of the composer, and songs that are in the public domain require no permissions.  Each song (even ones we think are public domain) should be investigated as to its copyright status before deciding to arrange. Additionally, songs that are public domain in the United States may not be in another country, and may even have an active copyright. If you live outside of the United States, be sure to check the song status through legitimate sources in your own country.

Sheet Music Direct/Sheet Music Press: The quickest method for obtaining clearance to arrange a song is through the simple and inexpensive process offered by Sheet Music Direct (affiliated with Hal Leonard Publishing).  If the song title is available through SMD, the WORLDWIDE clearance process is already done with no extra fees.  I simply complete the custom arrangement, and once approved and accepted by YOU, I post it on SMP Press for you to purchase for an inexpensive “per-copy” price, from which a 10% royalty is paid back to me.  Go online to their website and enter the song name, just to see if they have the title available.  If so, this is a superb process to utilize.  

Sweet Adelines International:  Sometimes a song is not available through Sheet Music Direct/Sheet Music Plus.  Then we may want to try Sweet Adelines International.  An application for “Permission to Arrange” must first be submitted, which costs $20. This process lets us know what the ultimate song licensing fee will be, if available.  I will proceed to arrange only AFTER we have received Permission to Arrange, and the requesting ensemble has paid the associated song licensing fee. These fees range between $0 – hundreds of dollars. However, Sweet Adelines International has special contracts with the publishers, and therefore can command a lower price in many cases.   The complete process can sometimes take months, so plan accordingly. 

Barbershop Harmony Society:  BHS clearances are unique – they are exclusive for the ensembles or arranger requesting the permission to arrange, and the clearance gives the ensemble permission to sing it for an unlimited amount of time.  Cost varies according to amount, but can be approximately $50 – $200.  I have used BHS for a Disney clearance because SAI could not get the piece cleared after 6 months of trying, and SMP only had a select few older Disney tunes at the time. 

Permission from the Composer:  If all else fails, I can check the BMI/ASCAP listing for the song you want arranged, and contact the publisher directly for permission to arrange.  This can take time, and costs will vary.     

I believe no arrangement is completely finished until it is sung. I welcome your feedback, which will help my arrangements be of the highest quality. I guarantee my arrangements to be satisfying and superbly crafted, and will work with you concerning any aspects of an arrangement until you are completely satisfied. I can even provide you with a few changes during the learning phase because often, there are some very sensible tweaks ensemble directors wish to make!  

I do not make professional learning tracks for my arrangements. However, upon request, I CAN provide you with part predominant Finale audio tracks to get you started. Many extremely talented individuals are creating learning tracks for barbershop harmony ensembles. Please contact me if you need suggestions.