Performing rights and copyright

In the autumn edition of Highnotes, discover key learnings from our final Big Survey 2022. Get inspired by Soundabout's inclusive project, NewSPAL's campaign to save their music library and the Sitar Music Society's rich musical tradition. Plus, don’t miss our article about Making Music's 90th anniversary.

Whether you are performing, writing, rehearsing or recording music, you’ll probably need to be covered by a licence. But knowing where to start, what you should consider and what you need to do can be confusing. This resource will introduce the permissions and licenses you may need and how to get them.

Even if your group has never needed a licence it’s worth taking some time to understand music licensing because: 

If you're searching for music that you can use freely - without licences or fees - you're probably looking for something in the public domain. But when does music enter the public domain in the UK, and what should you watch out for? Here's a quick guide. . 

What does 'public domain' mean? 

When music enters the public domain, it’s no longer protected by copyright law. That means you can usually use, perform, and share it without needing permission or paying royalties. 

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. 

Searching online for a 'music copyright checker' might seem like the easiest way to see if a song is copyrighted — but how reliable are these tools, really? Here's what you need to know before relying on them.

Can you check music copyright online? 

A quick search will bring up many 'copyright checker' websites. Some claim to tell you if a song is protected or safe to use. But in most cases: 

Thinking of uploading a recording of your music group to YouTube or another platform? It’s vital to understand your legal responsibilities when using copyrighted music online. While the internet makes it easy to share performances, the rules around music licensing still apply — and can catch you out if you’re not careful. 

Whether you're arranging a concert, uploading a performance online, or simply rehearsing with your group, music copyright is something you need to get right. This quick guide explains the basics - what it is, how long it lasts, and how it relates to licensing.