If I want to make a new arrangement for an existing piece what must I do legally?

Question

Is it legal just to make an arrangement for something or do you have to pay the publishing company something or get written permission? The arrangement won't be published but it would be performed in an audition.

Answer 1

You must receive written permission from the publisher UNLESS the composition is in the public domain. Even then, a publisher who has a proprietary right may challenge you.

Answer 2

Of course, you must get premission from the publishing company. You can't make a new arrangement of work by someone else.