If you think you have to get the rights to a piece of music that you have choreography set to you should keep certain things in mind. First, there is nothing worse than wanting to film a beautiful piece of choreography that set to music only to find out that you cannot obtain the rights because it's impossible, either legally or financially. So begin securing the rights as soon as your project begins to materialize to avoid this.
Remember, the people you are contacting may be artists too, and may be glad that someone has taken enough interest in their music to use it in collaboration. So indulge yourself and explain your project. Though most artists are well aware of how much their song is worth, they may be sympathetic towards a small budget, independent project and charge you a smaller or non-existent fee. Do not be shy! Remember, this is business and negotiation is always an option.
Keep records of everything. All email correspondence can end up highly useful if there is a dispute. Always have agreements on paper, even if it is only an email. Phone agreements do not cut it but a lawyer is not necessary. A simple statement with a signature will suffice. This is particularly important when working with friends; keep your business life straightforward and on paper and your friendship will remain successful. It is also a good idea to discuss division of royalties should your work end up making money.
To obtain music rights, many record labels have forms you must complete. Common questions include info on the project, length and what scenes the music will be used for. For example, licenses for opening and closing credits are more expensive. There could also be technical questions like what type of license your want to obtain, like for example, a two-year license in North America.
You must obtain two different kinds of rights from the song you want to use: Synchronization and Master Use rights. Synchronization rights are obtained from the song's publisher and Master Use rights are obtained from the record company of the song. But if you want to use a song but want to perform it yourself, you must still obtain the Synchronization rights from the publisher.
Remember, the people you are contacting may be artists too, and may be glad that someone has taken enough interest in their music to use it in collaboration. So indulge yourself and explain your project. Though most artists are well aware of how much their song is worth, they may be sympathetic towards a small budget, independent project and charge you a smaller or non-existent fee. Do not be shy! Remember, this is business and negotiation is always an option.
Keep records of everything. All email correspondence can end up highly useful if there is a dispute. Always have agreements on paper, even if it is only an email. Phone agreements do not cut it but a lawyer is not necessary. A simple statement with a signature will suffice. This is particularly important when working with friends; keep your business life straightforward and on paper and your friendship will remain successful. It is also a good idea to discuss division of royalties should your work end up making money.
To obtain music rights, many record labels have forms you must complete. Common questions include info on the project, length and what scenes the music will be used for. For example, licenses for opening and closing credits are more expensive. There could also be technical questions like what type of license your want to obtain, like for example, a two-year license in North America.
You must obtain two different kinds of rights from the song you want to use: Synchronization and Master Use rights. Synchronization rights are obtained from the song's publisher and Master Use rights are obtained from the record company of the song. But if you want to use a song but want to perform it yourself, you must still obtain the Synchronization rights from the publisher.
About the Author:
Tony Meredith and Melanie LaPatin have been choreographing, educating, performing and composing fantastic choreography for over thirty years. The operate New York City's top-notch dance center. If you are want to know more history of any dances make sure you check out their website. They are now teaching dance lessons in NYC.
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