In order to foster a rich and sustainable creative environment for composers, the Canadian League of Composers has compiled a set of best practices to follow when drafting Calls for Scores and Proposals.
Some topics addressed in the document include:
- Statements of inclusivity
- ‘Emerging’ and ageism
- Applicant anonymity
- Juries
- Competitions for prizes: prize monies vs. commissioning fees
- ‘On spec’ and ‘niche’ competitions vs. commissions
- Submission materials
- Application fees
- Compensation
- Copyright
- Distribution
A Call must have all of the information necessary for composers to apply. This includes information about the application process and expectations around the delivery of material, attendance at performances and rehearsals, etc.
The CLC encourages organizations to consider equity and artistic sustainability at each stage of the process of designing, writing, and sharing a Call. Who does your Call welcome? Who does it include and who does it exclude, explicitly and implicitly? How does it reflect your organizational vision and your contribution to the vitality of the arts? Are your partners in agreement with your policies and your intended Call language?
The CLC encourages organizations to emphasize inclusive approaches and language in their Calls, taking time to welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds of age, gender, ethnicity, and ability. The CLC has recently released an Equity Policy on its website which we encourage organizations to consult as they draft their Calls.
Download the Guidelines for Calls for Scores and Proposals: