Luke McMillan Music

FAQ

Commissioning someone to write a custom musical work for your group can be a daunting task filled with many unanswered questions, especially if it is your first time to do so. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions that will hopefully put your mind at ease.

Why should I buy a custom arrangement or composition? Stock music is much cheaper!: Published music is cheaper, but custom music is 100% tailored to fit your band, and every player is taken into consideration. Remember, your marching band music is the most important choice you make during the fall semester, and you want the highest quality product possible. Think of it this way: Would you buy “one-size-fits-all” uniforms for your entire band?
I don’t have the money in the budget to pay for the music right now, can I fall bill it?: Yes! I understand how difficult budgeting can be in public schools. Just communicate with me ahead of time about your budgetary constraints, and I will work with you however I can.
I have extremely unique instrumentation; will you be able to accommodate my needs?: Absolutely! Whatever your needs, no matter how unusual, I can write something to fit your group.
Does the music include percussion parts?: It can if you would like. So far, I’ve written the percussion parts for all of my grade 1 and 2 shows, and some of my grade 3 and up shows. I have worked with percussion arrangers for some of my grade 3 shows, as well as anything more difficult than that.
I have a percussion arranger in mind that I want to use. How will that work?: No problem! Just give me his/her contact info and I will get them the proper materials.
If I’m having an arrangement written, do I need the permission of the publisher?: Yes! See my copyright section for an in-depth explanation of this process.
I have very specific ideas that I’d like to incorporate into my music. Is this possible?: You can be as involved or uninvolved in the process as you want. I will work hard to incorporate any specific ideas you feel necessary.
How will I receive my music?: I can send you the printed score and parts with a CD of your music, or I can send it electronically in PDF and MP3 format.
How long will it take you to complete the music?: It will depend on when you place your order and what other projects I am working on. The date of completion will be discussed and agreed upon prior to when I start writing your music. If you need the music by a specific date, let me know and I will try my best to accommodate you.
I would like at least part of my show to play for my spring concert; will that be possible?: Contact me as early as you can and I will try to accommodate your needs.
My band is very small and mostly young students. Can you help me?: Absolutely! I have written for very small, young, 1A bands all the way up to college bands. Just let me know what your needs are and I can write something to fit any band at any difficulty level.