FAQ

How often does the NZSO support projects under this programme?

We allocate a maximum of two working weeks per annum to NZSO Recording Aotearoa. This is subject to being scheduled around planned or existing commitments in the Orchestra diary. 

The annual allocation can either be one major project or be divided into several smaller projects.

How long does it take to get a project confirmed once in the programme?

We work to a date confirmation window of 6 - 18 months for recordings. Depending on the size of the project, however, inclusions in NZSO Recording Aotearoa can be slightly more flexible. We'll look to integrate session dates into gaps in the Orchestra schedule wherever possible. 

Please be aware a minimum of three months' notice is expected in confirming dates. 

When should I apply for NZSO Recording Aotearoa?

Whenever you are ready. To express your interest please visit here.

Composers / creative teams must provide set information, including evidence of both artistic and financial support plans.

Any deadlines that must be adhered to should be clearly indicated on the Expression of Interest. When applying, the composers / creative team should be aware that the NZSO may not be able to meet these deadlines.  

The NZSO will convene a specific review panel if/when required. 

Who decides if a project can go ahead under this programme?

Expressions of Interest are reviewed on receipt to the NZSO.

A panel of NZSO staff and players review applications. The group will usually include (but is not limited to):

NZSO’s Concert Master, Director: Artistic Programming, Innovation and Audience Engagement, Senior Manager: Commercial & Partnerships, Senior Manager: Marketing & Audience Engagement, Senior Manager: Artistic Programming, and player representatives when required. 

The process is overseen by the Senior Manager: Commercial & Partnerships, who leads the project both internally and externally. 

What happens next if my project is approved for inclusion in the programme?

We will provide a quote, agree on a working timeline, and ensure that all the terms and conditions can be adhered to before planning commences. 

The NZSO will be able to assist in the planning and implementation of the project. We can provide support letters and general advocacy as required. Practicalities, such as liaison and contracting of venues, artistic and production personnel will remain your responsibility. 

What happens if my timelines or finances change after approval?

If unforeseeable circumstances stall the project on the composer / creative team side once planning is underway, we will look to give the allocated recording date pencilled in the orchestra diary to another NZSO Recording Aotearoa project. 

Your project will remain approved if all artistic premises remain the same; however, it will likely need to be deferred to the following calendar year. 

How much money will I have to raise to make this happen?

The budget scope for recording projects differs dramatically depending on the format (i.e. instrumentation and combined minutes of score to record), as well as size (i.e. what kind of sectioning we could undertake due to the style of music being recorded will impact which venue or studio is appropriate – who all have very different costs associated in both hire and labour). 

We are happy to talk through basic overall project costing implications once a firm format is in place to use in the exercise to ensure you understand and are comfortable with the implications of embarking on this journey. 

The financial pieces of the puzzle you need to think about are:

Phase 1

NZSO Operation fee: Library services, freight charges, additional musicians, specialist instrument hire.

Artistic fees: Conductor, soloists, arranger if required, audio producer.

Phase 2

Recording venue: Pack in and out, technical equipment and labour, lights, heating and cooling (if not inclusive).

Engineer team: Lead engineer, Pro Tools operator, studio assistants, pack-in and pack-down costs.

Post-production: Lead engineer, mixing fee, desk hire, studio hire if applicable, mastering.

Final Phase

Product Design: LP/CD production, digital and print campaign, accompanying AV material.

Promo & distribution: Label shares, marketing including plugger and p.r if applicable, project launch. 

Emergency Funds

In case of uncontrollable date deferment, for example: Key personnel illness, Changes in COVID-19 government guidance, Unforeseen extended mixing requirements.

Contact us

For enquiries and project consultancy, please get in touch: Claire Wackrow, Senior Manager Commercial & Partnerships claire.wackrow@nzso.co.nz.