Lafayette Music Productions, Inc. | Music Arrangement and Production Services | Eric Van Cleave

Tips for Submitting Arrangement Requests

When crafting a custom arrangement, we aim to please! That's why it's best to have all of the parameters in place before we begin.

Arrangement Instructions

Often, directors will simply say, "I really like this song!  Just make it fantastic!"
However, we still need some specific information such as:

• Do you want us to be "creative?”
• Or, are you looking for a close transcription/lift of the original artist performance?
• What is the voicing (SATB? SSA? TTB?)
• Instrumentation requirements (including any instrumentalists you want to feature)
• Length?
• Where in your show will this title appear?  (ie. Opener? Closer? Ballad?)
• Do you require a dance break?                                                    

Often, the parameters provided can be very limiting, so don't feel like you have to make every musical decision before submitting the request. However, please remember to indicate all required parameters in the "Arrangement Instructions" section of the arrangement request form.

Describing Edits

If you do have a specific edit in mind, it's best for us to have the following information:

• A reference original artist recording, if applicable, or YouTube link.
• Notes specifically referencing the recording (see below).
• (Highly suggested) An edited recording that reflecting your cuts/edits, etc.          

Often, requested "cuts" don't make as much sense when you hear them edited.  You (or someone on your team) should be familiar with editing software such as Garage Band or Sound Forge.

Confusing Instructions

Here's an example of instructions that are confusing and can lead to much wasted time/communication.

"We don't really like that one section after the chorus--and want to skip a few bars--but please go to that one section after that and make it a dance break and then later make it girls- then guys where it says the word "love.”  I'd like a key change after that and then end."

Better Instructions

Here's an example of the same information presented in a way that is helpful and leads to better results.

NOTE:  Sometimes we receive requests to arrange a title and at a later time, find that the arrangement was cut/edited severely.  It's best for you and your choreographer and arrangers to discuss edits/show design EARLY in the show development process. Otherwise, you may find that the edits you wish to make don't make musical sense, either because phrases don't line up, or key changes make your desired "late" edits impossible or very awkward.

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