Professional Practice, Ethics and Artist Livelihood
Domain 9 tests fees, contracts, copyright, consent and ethical representation. The exam expects practical professional judgement, not only artistic skill.
Core rules
- Quote fees covering performer payment, rehearsal, travel, instrument transport, sound and contingency.
- Use a written agreement: scope, date, duration, payment terms and cancellation.
- Traditional songs may be public-domain in text, but arrangements and recordings carry rights; credit collectors, composers and performers.
- Obtain consent for sacred or ritual material; avoid misrepresenting ritual as entertainment.
- Build livelihood through teaching, workshops, recordings and documented performances.
Worked example
A troupe is booked for a festival. Reasoning: calculate eight performer fees, travel, two rehearsals, instrument transport and sound; include a 90-minute set, 50% cancellation clause and programme credit. The quote protects artists and clarifies expectations before the event.
Traps that cost marks
Verbal agreements and undercharging weaken artist livelihood. Using Deodhani trance commercially without community consent is unethical. Failing to credit collaborators or collectors is a professional error.