Copyright for musicians
When it comes to music, copyright is the single most important legal concept. The whole value of music in the music industry is to a significant degree based on the basic rights that copyright provides. In this Fact Sheet we consider some of the key principles of copyright as it applies to musicians.
The specific questions we address are:
- What is copyright?
- How does copyright apply to musicians?
- What else does copyright apply to?
- What are the individual rights that are included in copyright?
- Who owns the copyright in something?
- Can more than one person own the copyright in something?
- Do I have to register my copyright?
- Are there any other requirements before copyright will apply?
- How long does copyright last for?
- How do people know that I am the owner of my copyright?
- Are there any other ways I can let people know I am the owner of my copyright?
- Are there any other organisations that can help me administer my copyright?
- Are there any situations where copyright does not apply?
- Are my copyright rights enforceable throughout the world?
- What is copyright Infringement and how does it occur?
- What can I do if someone is infringing my copyright?
- How do I transfer my copyright to someone else?
- Do I have to assign my copyright to enable someone else to use it?
- What is the real difference between assigning and licensing copyright?
- What are some of the agreements in the music industry that involve assignments and licenses of copyright?
Fact Sheet: Copyright for Musicians (305)