Ragged Mountains Fanfare

2023

Commissioned by:  Albemarle County Middle School Honors Band

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Fill out the info below to receive more specific info on starting the commissioning process.  A price estimate will also be provided for you as part of this process.


Viaje Fantástico

2020

Commissioned by:  Roseann Ferguson

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Commissioned Works and Those Who Made Them Happen!


Marissa's Lullaby

2016

Commissioned by:  The Maquoketa Valley, IA Fine Arts Boosters

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​"Cory was the perfect blend of professionalism and creativity during our commission.  He wanted to have a deep understanding of what purpose the piece may serve prior to working and provides a blend of original ideas along with a great sense of catering to the performers' needs.   Cory understands that the education of the students and making great memories of a piece unique to the performers is of utmost importance."                 Ted S. - Music Educator 


The Legend of Wapsipinicon
2013
Commissioned by:  The Northeast Iowa Bandmaster Association

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Iowa River Scenes

2016

Commissioned by:  The Waukon, IA Instrumental Music Department

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Lifelong Joy
2016
Commissioned by:  The North Fayette-Valley, IA Fine Arts Boosters


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​Crossroad Journey

2016
Commissioned by:  The Central-DeWitt, IA High School Band

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Through Perseverance We Continue

2024

Commissioned by:  Decorah (Iowa) Music Boosters

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Reasons for Commissioning A Work!

Commission Request

Commission the Creation of a New Piece of Music

  • A commission draws positive attention to your program, your ensemble, and the hard work of your organization and staff.
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  • A premiere of a new work, composed specifically for your ensemble, will get the attention of people that are generally beyond your typical audience.

  • Commissioning a work to commemorate a local landmark, hero, story, or event can bring large-scale significance to your community.

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  • Commissioning regularly can become a useful recruiting tool.


  • By commissioning new works and bringing the composer into the musical process, you allow your students to see composing as an activity that still occurs today!


  • Even after a piece is premiered, the members of your ensemble will have a significant memory that will last a lifetime and they will have a sense of the composition always being 'their music'.


  • A commission creates energy, excitement, and forward momentum within an ensemble that can last throughout the year.

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  • By commissioning, you can tailor a musical work to your ensemble's exact needs.  Have a strong oboist but a weak trumpet section?  No problem!  Your commission will be designed to bring out the best in your group!


  • A commission can allow for unique and interesting opportunities for your students to have a hand in the composing process.  Ask Cory about ways your students can be partners in the creation process of the piece!


  • If cost is an issue, there are many options for making the process more affordable.  Consider the many grants that are available and frequently given for this sort of project.  Also, consider teaming up with a group of schools, committees, boosters, etc. and share the commission process across a larger base.

Cory J. McBride

Composer / Conductor / EducATOR / CLinician