The Business of Commercials!! 223parts, and a clarinet player is also expected to double on the flute. Even
though the payments are not based on union scale, the performers will
not perform unlimited services for one fee unless it is agreed on prior to a
recording session.
Number of Singers and Cost
The number of singers must be specified (lead and background singers).
If the singers overdub their parts or add new parts, additional payments
will be due. Include health and pension benefits in the budget.
Cost of Engineer
Most recording engineers charge an hourly rate. Sometimes they agree to
a flat fee with the condition that after they exceed an agreed-on number of
hours, they receive additional compensation.
Studio Costs
Studio costs include studio time, hard-disk recording devices, video
equipment, duplication costs, and so on. (It is rare to use tape.)
Studio time is charged on an hourly basis. (Include tax in the budget.)
Always estimate additional studio time because creatives tend to request
changes during sessions, and this can be time consuming.
Fees for Celebrities
If celebrities are hired to sing or play on a commercial, their fees can be
costly. The agency negotiates the fees directly with their agent or manager.
This fee is not included in the budget given by music companies.
Instrument Rentals
On occasion there is a need to rent instruments. Often they are unusual
instruments that most players do not own, or they are very large instru-
ments, such as timpani, harp, boo bams (percussion instrument), or bala-
phones (African xylophones). Call an instrument rental company and ask
about prices so that the cost can be included in the budget. If the arranger
decides to use additional instruments after the budget has been submitted,
deduct the cost from the ‘‘miscellaneous’’ section of the budget.
Most professional studios rent instruments and equipment (as a cour-
tesy to music houses) and charge the fee on the studio bill. Consult with
the instrumentalist before renting an instrument. He or she might request
a specific brand.