FAQ — Custom Sheet Music Arrangements | CustomMusicCharts

Question 1

How do I place an order?

Accepted Answer

Use the order form on the Order page. Tell me the song, the key you need it in, your instrumentation, and any other details. I'll confirm the quote and timeline before any work begins.

Question 2

How long does a chart take?

Accepted Answer

Standard turnaround is 5 to 7 business days. Rush service — 48 hours — is available for an additional fee, depending on current order volume.

Question 3

What is rush turnaround?

Accepted Answer

Rush orders are delivered within 48 hours of confirmed payment. Rush adds a 50% surcharge to the base price. If you have a hard deadline, mention it in your order and I'll let you know if it's achievable.

Question 4

Do you work on weekends?

Accepted Answer

Rush orders can be fulfilled any day. Standard orders are worked on a first-in, first-out basis and may not move on weekends depending on current volume.

Question 5

Why do some songs cost more than the listed price?

Accepted Answer

Pricing is based on a typical 3-minute song of moderate complexity. Longer or more complex arrangements — extra sections, horn hits, key changes, dense harmony — take more time to chart, so pricing may adjust. You will always get a quote up front before work starts.

Question 6

What instrumentation do you write for?

Accepted Answer

Any standard band configuration. Most orders are for cruise ship setups: rhythm section (bass, keys, drums, guitar) plus a 3-piece horn section (trumpet, alto sax, trombone). I also write for larger horn sections, string sections, and solo act support. If you have a specific book, describe it in the order form.

Question 7

Can you transpose into any key?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Tell me the key you need — or send a reference track and your comfortable range — and I'll handle all transpositions. Concert pitch, Bb, Eb, and F instruments all written correctly.

Question 8

Can you match a chart to my vocal range?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Send a reference track and your comfortable key or range, and the chart will be built around it.

Question 9

What does a full chart include?

Accepted Answer

A full chart includes a conductor score and individual parts for each instrument in your band. Parts are correctly transposed, include rehearsal letters, and are formatted for easy reading on a stand.

Question 10

Do you do full horn section arrangements?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Trumpet, sax, trombone, or full horn sections for production numbers — not just lead sheets. Larger sections beyond the standard 3-piece are quoted individually.

Question 11

Can you write a medley?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Medley and set packages cover 3 to 5 songs at $150 per song bundled. I handle the transitions, key changes between songs, and overall flow. Describe the medley in the order form and I'll confirm the quote.

Question 12

How many revisions are included?

Accepted Answer

The first two rounds of revisions, within reason, are free with every order. Additional revisions beyond that are billed at a fair hourly rate. Revision requests need to be specific — 'the trumpet part feels too high in the bridge' is actionable; 'make it better' is not.

Question 13

How are charts delivered?

Accepted Answer

All charts are delivered as high-quality PDFs via email, ready to print or read digitally.

Question 14

Can I get the working files (Finale, Sibelius, Dorico, MusicXML)?

Accepted Answer

No. Working files are not provided. Charts are delivered as PDF only.

Question 15

Can you print and ship physical charts?

Accepted Answer

Yes, for an additional $10 per chart. Charts are printed and taped gig-folder style, ready to set on a stand. Just note it on your order.

Question 16

Do you produce backing tracks?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Backing tracks and click tracks are available for $50 to $200 depending on scope. Describe what you need in the order form and I'll quote it.

Question 17

Do you build full shows, not just individual charts?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Full show packages cover every song and backing track for your entire set as one cohesive project. Because full shows take significantly more time than single charts, reach out as early as possible — ideally 4 to 6 weeks out — to secure your spot and lock in a timeline.

Question 18

I have a recording I want to match. Can you work from that?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Send the recording with your order and I'll use it as the reference for key, feel, arrangement, and any specific details you want preserved.

Common questions.

Ordering & Turnaround

Charts & Formats

Revisions & Delivery

Backing Tracks & Full Shows

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