Music Copyright Information for Schools There is often confusion surrounding copyright in educational establishments. Many people are led to believe that schools and other non-commercial bodies are fully exempt under the Copyright, Designs and Patent Act 1988, as they have heard about allowances for fair dealing and education. Here are some frequently asked questions about copyright in schools Does the school need permission to play a CD in a classroom, as part of a lesson? No, music used in the classroom for educational purposes would not require a licence. How about playing a CD in the school hall for a Disco? This would not been considered educational use, therefore the school would need a licence from PPL and PRS. What do we do if we want to perform a dramatic musical work in the school? If the musical being performed is a copyrighted work, permission would be required from the holder of the amateur stage rights. You can find out who this is by contacting NODA (National Operatic and Dramatic Association). See Theatrical Rightsholders Contacts. In addition to this, the school should have a PRS licence. See Music Rights Societies. What about if the school children are performing the show off the school premises? who is responsible for licensing? The same permission would be required from the holder of the stage rights, plus it would be the schools responsibilty to ensure that the outside venue was licensed by PRS. Can we photocopy sheet music? A licence should be obtained from the relevant publisher/print rights owner to photocopy sheet music. Contact The Music Publishers Association for further information. Do we need a licence to make CD/DVD recordings of the children for their parents? If the recording contains copyrighted material, then Yes a licence would be required from MCPS - see Music Rights Societies. Do we need a licence to make recordings for classroom or assessment purposes? No, as long as the recordings remain in the classroom and are used for tuition, assement or submission purposes only. For further information on copyright in education, plus more indepth music industry information, please refer to 'The Insiders Guide to the Music Industry'. Simply click below for more information 'The Insiders Guide to the Music Industry' Return to Music Copyright Menu Return to Homepage