[jacquesm]

String quartets have trouble enough finding an audience that is willing to pay as it is.

This has been plaguing the arts for many years, but it is mostly because art is not valued for the time that went into the production of that art.

[nucleardog]

The only time someone is paid for the time that went into something directly is when that time is the product. Essentially, when you're paying for someone to apply specialized skills at your direction rather than the result of an application of those skills.

If we both write an app and I take twice as long I don't get to charge twice as much. The only effect adding additional time has on the value is when it creates a better product (maybe the quartet is able to play more demanding pieces and becomes more well-known and prestigious).

Even in the arts when you're selling the application of your skills rather than the end result you charge for time spent. I knew an accompanist. She charged for all her practice and rehearsal time.