Copyright and Performing Licences
(back to Licences & Copyright)
| Many activities in schools require licences | Does your school use the overhead projector instead of hymn books during assembly? Does your school use recordings of television and radio programmes in the classroom? Is music played in dance or aerobic classes? Does your limited budget mean you cannot afford to buy enough books or music for your pupils and you have to rely on photocopies instead? Are discos ever held on your school premises? Do you ever put on plays, musicals or concerts? These are just some of the normal school activities which depend on the use of literature, music and art in their many manifestations. Many of these works are protected by copyright and those who created them have a right to license their use, and to be paid when they are used.
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| The value of creative works | These works are central to the national curriculum as subjects in their own right. They also play a vital role in preparing children to be better citizens and to meet the challenges of the labour market by contributing to their wellbeing and development. |
| Copyright and creative industries | Literature, music and art are also key elements of the creative industries. These industries make an important and ever-growing contribution to the economy of our country. 1 in 20 of the workforce currently earns their living from the creative industries. A strong copyright regime supported by legislation has enabled most of these industries to develop. Their continuing health and the future livelihoods of many of your pupils depend upon the recognition of the value of copyright works, by making proper payment for their use. |
| Your responsibility | You will be aware that each school is responsible for ensuring that all necessary copyright licences have been obtained for its activities. The purpose of these pages is to inform and to help you identify which activities need to be licensed and to direct you to the appropriate organisation in each case for further advice and guidance. |
Please note | This guide to licensing organisations covers the majority of routine activities for which schools require a licence, but it is not exhaustive. Other organisations may need to be contacted. Licences for certain school activities are obtainable directly from the relevant copyright owner(s). |
Frequently Asked Questions
| Do we have to pay a licence fee if we have a PRS and/or CCL licence? | Yes. 'Block' licences which your school/group/LEA may have do not cover performances of musicals, licences for which are only available from publishers. Performing Starshine musicals without permission from Starshine Music is illegal. |
| Can we charge for tickets? | Schools are allowed to make a ticket charge or ask for donations in order to cover the cost of putting on productions or concerts. This includes costs of materials, licence costs, costumes, props, programmes etc. |
| Do we have to pay a licence fee even if we allow free admission? | Yes. The writers are entitled to receive a fee for use of their work whether admission is charged or not. |
| Do we have to pay a licence fee as we make a collection but donate it to a charity? | Yes. The writers are still entitled to receive a fee for use of their work even if a charitable donation is made. |
| Do we need a licence for our dress rehearsal? | No. - Starshine Music does not charge for dress rehearsals. |
| What about videoing and/or sound recordings? | small licence fee is charged depending on the number of recordings made. |
| How do I find out how much a licence will cost? | You may request a quote online by:- a) completing the form at Performing Licence Application Form. b) you may print the form and send it to us or c) telephone us at 01323 764334 |
| How do I apply for a performing licence? | You may apply online by:- a) completing the form at Performing Licence Application Form. b) you may print the form and send/fax it to us, c) telephone us at 01323 764334 or d) complete the application form in the Director's score and send/fax to us. |
| Where can I find out more about copyright and licensing? | at-a-glance guide to licensing |