How to check if a piece is copyrighted in the UK

If you're planning to use music in a live performance, or online, it's important to check whether the song is copyrighted — and what that means for you. Here's a quick overview of how to find out.

Is the piece still in copyright?

In the UK, most music remains under copyright for 70 years after the death of the composer or lyricist. Some printed sheet music is also protected separately for 25 years from publication.

If the composer died within the last 70 years, assume the music is still copyrighted.

How to check copyright status

There’s no single official UK register of all copyrighted songs, but there are a few ways to check:

Check publication dates: For classical or traditional music, check when it was published or when the composer died — this gives a strong indication of whether the music is likely to be out of copyright.
Contact the Music Publishers Association: If you’re using sheet music or an arrangement, the MPA may be able to confirm rights and licensing requirements.

What if the piece is copyrighted?

If the song is still in copyright, you may need to:

Pay a licence fee for public performance, often through PRS for Music
Avoid photocopying or adapting sheet music unless you have permission
Check recording or playback rights, which may involve PRS and PPL

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We hope you find this Making Music resource useful. If you have any comments or suggestions about the guidance please contact us. Whilst every effort is made to ensure that the content of this guidance is accurate and up to date, Making Music do not warrant, nor accept any liability or responsibility for the completeness or accuracy of the content, or for any loss which may arise from reliance on the information contained in it.