Commission an Original Organ Composition

A new composition can commemorate an occasion, celebrate a milestone, honour an individual or become a lasting contribution to the repertoire of one of the world's most extraordinary musical instruments.

English composer and concert organist David Hicken welcomes commissions for new, original organ compositions. His music combines memorable melodies, rich harmonies, virtuoso writing and dramatic musical storytelling, bringing a distinctive contemporary voice to the centuries-old tradition of organ music.

From intimate and reflective works to powerful, monumental compositions, each commission offers an opportunity to create something entirely new: music conceived specifically for the expressive and architectural possibilities of the pipe organ.

Commission a New Work for Organ

Commissions are welcomed from individuals, organists, churches, cathedrals, concert organisations, festivals, institutions and patrons of the arts.

A new composition might be commissioned for:

• A concert, recital or organ festival
• The inauguration or restoration of a pipe organ
• A church or cathedral anniversary
• A wedding, celebration or significant personal occasion
• A dedication, memorial or tribute
• An organist seeking an original addition to their concert repertoire
• A patron wishing to support the creation of new contemporary organ music

Commissions are not limited to ceremonial or sacred occasions. My musical language is equally suited to dramatic concert works, energetic toccatas, lyrical compositions and large-scale musical statements.

My Approach to Composition

My music is rooted in the classical tradition, but I have always been drawn to the possibilities of creating something new. I believe that the pipe organ is one of the most extraordinary instruments ever conceived, capable of an almost limitless range of colour, expression and dramatic power.

When I compose, I aim to combine strong melodic ideas with rich harmonies, rhythmic energy and a sense of musical storytelling. Whether a piece is intimate and contemplative or powerful and exhilarating, my goal is always to create music that connects with the listener.

I am particularly interested in expanding the contemporary organ repertoire and demonstrating that this magnificent instrument has an exciting future, as well as a remarkable past.

The Commissioning Process

1. Initial Enquiry

The process begins with a conversation about your proposed commission. I would be delighted to hear about the occasion, the approximate duration you have in mind, the general character of the music and any important deadlines.

2. Artistic Direction

You are very welcome to suggest the atmosphere or emotional direction of the piece. Perhaps you envision something celebratory and triumphant, reflective and lyrical, or dramatic and monumental.

While I welcome these ideas, I retain full artistic freedom over the composition itself. I believe this is essential to creating music that is both original and authentic, while reflecting the spirit of the commission.

3. Composition

Once we have agreed on the scope, fee and schedule, I begin composing. Every commissioned work is created from the ground up, rather than adapted from existing material.

I approach each new composition with the same commitment to musical quality, imagination and expressive impact that I bring to my own concert repertoire.

4. Completion and Delivery

The completed work is professionally engraved and supplied as a digital musical score. Any arrangements concerning a dedication, premiere or special performance can be discussed and agreed individually.

Creating a Lasting Musical Legacy

One of the most rewarding aspects of composing is knowing that a new piece of music can continue to be performed and enjoyed long after its first performance.

By commissioning a new organ composition, you are not only marking a particular occasion but also contributing to the creation of new repertoire for future generations of organists and audiences.

Whether the inspiration is personal, commemorative, celebratory or purely artistic, my hope is to create a work that has meaning beyond the occasion for which it was originally written.

Copyright and Performance

As the composer, I retain copyright in commissioned works unless otherwise expressly agreed in writing.

Arrangements concerning dedications, premieres, recordings, publication or other uses of the music will be discussed and agreed before work begins.

Commissions for Organ Manufacturers & Developers

I also welcome commissions and creative collaborations with digital organ manufacturers, Hauptwerk sample-set developers and console builders, including original compositions for product launches, promotional performances and new instrument releases.

Find out more about my Organ Industry Partnerships.