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Copyright and Church Music are restless but constant companions.
Those who work in church music, either as full-time professionals
or as volunteers, are constantly faced with issues related to the
use of other people’s music. That music falls under copyright laws.
There are three major considerations for the proper use of copyrighted
music. The first two of those considerations are the issues of the
printing or photocopying of copyrighted music and the taping of
worship services for distribution to shut-ins. These things, without
special licensing, are violations of the copyright law. However,
blanket licensing is available for your church through Christian
Copyright Licensing International for a relatively modest fee.
Apply on the web at www.ccli.com.
The third consideration for the proper use of copyrighted music by
churches relates to audio and video tape recording (for sale or
general distribution).
There is a general rule for photocopying: Don’t!
There may be some circumstances when you will find it possible
to negotiate for that permission…but you should be sure
that you have it in writing from the copyright owner.
There is a general rule for audio and video taping to
make tapes for sale or general distribution: Get licenses!
If the music has been recorded previous to your project, you
may make use of compulsory licenses. If you want to video,
the law requires a negotiated license.
Churches and non-profit organizations are not exempt from
copyright laws relating to the recording of audio and video
tapes for sale or general distribution. If you plan to
record, read carefully through the Quickfaks™ in this
website…especially the Recording
Procedures page. If you’d like professional assistance
for your project, contact CopyClear, Inc.
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