Performing Arts Music Copyright Licenses

This page is designed to help you navigate the music copyright licensing jungle!

Navigating Music Rights Licensing for Dance and Performance Groups

For groups involved in competitive or recreational performances—such as winterguard, dance, cheer, artistic swimming, gymnastics, and figure skating—it’s essential to secure the proper music licenses before using copyrighted tracks in routines. Here’s a simple guide to ensure you’re legally covered.

Step 1: Understand the Different Types of Licenses

Before diving into any paperwork, it’s crucial to understand the different types of licenses you may need:

1. Sync Licenses – Required if you are synchronizing music to a video or performance.

2. Grand Rights Licenses – These are needed for musical works used in dramatic performances (think ballets, musicals, or any performance with a major storyline).

3. Public Performance Licenses – If you’re performing music in public spaces (even at a competition or event), this may be required.

Now let’s walk through how to get these licenses.

Step 2: Licensing Directly from the Source

There are a few organizations that handle music licensing, and many allow you to directly purchase the rights to use music for performances.

Option 1: Tresona Music

Tresona Music specializes in licensing music for performance arts like cheer, dance, and colorguard. They make it easy to search for music and acquire the necessary rights.

• What to do:

  1. Visit the “Cheer/Dance/Colorguard Licenses” page.

  2. Browse or search for the music you want to use.

  3. Choose the license that fits your needs (i.e., for competitions, rehearsals, etc.).

  4. Purchase and receive the rights to legally use the music in your performances.

  Tresona simplifies the process by offering tailored licensing for these specific performance groups, so it’s a great place to start.

Option 2: ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers)

ASCAP offers licenses directly for dance studios and performance groups. ASCAP handles the rights of many artists and composers, so they can help you secure the music licenses you need.

• What to do:

  1. Visit ASCAP’s dance studio licensing page.

  2. Register and set up an account if you don’t already have one.

  3. Search for the songs or artists you wish to license.

  4. Purchase the appropriate license based on your intended usage (performance or competition).

  ASCAP is a reliable source for obtaining licenses for public performances.

Option 3: BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.)

BMI is another major licensing body, and it provides a wealth of resources for those looking to use music for public performances.

• What to do:

  1. Fill out the appropriate forms from the BMI licensing page.

  2. You’ll need to provide details about your performance, such as the type of event and the music you intend to use.

  3. Expect to do some paperwork, as this process is more detailed, but it will cover you legally for public performances.

  4. Submit the forms and pay the necessary fees for your license.

BMI’s process is thorough but ensures you’re fully compliant with licensing laws.

Step 3: Securing Grand Rights for Musical Works

In the case of dramatic performances (think figure skating with a story element or a theatrical-style dance), you may need to secure Grand Rights.

Option 4: Wise Music Classical

Wise Music Classical offers Grand Rights licensing for classical and operatic works.

• What to do:

  1. Visit the licensing page.

  2. Identify the specific work you want to use.

  3. Contact them directly for the Grand Rights license, as these are often negotiated on a case-by-case basis.

  Grand Rights are more complex, but Wise Music Classical is one of the leading resources for these types of licenses.

Step 4: Explore Additional Platforms

If you’re looking for more affordable or potentially simpler licensing options, there are some other platforms available, like EasySong.

Option 5: EasySong

EasySong is another platform for securing performance rights to a wide variety of songs. It could be worth exploring, especially if you’re looking for an easy and direct route for obtaining rights.

• What to do:

  1. Visit the website.

  2. Search for your desired music.

  3. Follow the prompts to obtain the correct license.

Step 5: Complete the Paperwork

Regardless of which source you use, there will likely be paperwork involved. While it can be time-consuming, it’s essential to make sure you’re fully covered to avoid any legal issues.

• Key Information You’ll Need to Provide:

  • Type of performance (competition, exhibition, etc.).

  • Specific songs or artists you want to license.

  • How the music will be used (live performance, video, etc.).

  • Duration of the music usage (for a one-time performance or ongoing use).

  • Contact and payment details.

Step 6: Double-Check the License

Once you’ve acquired your music license, always review the terms carefully. Be sure it covers:

• The duration of use.

• The rights for public performances.

• The scope of usage (competition, rehearsal, video, etc.).

It’s always better to over-communicate with the licensing body to make sure you’re covered for all uses.

Final Tips:

• Start Early: Licensing can take time, so make sure you begin the process well before your first performance.

• Keep Records: Always save a copy of your licenses and any correspondence for future reference.

• Respect Copyright: Using music without the appropriate license can lead to fines and even disqualification from events.