For additional information or clarification, visit the Music Publishers’ Association website.

Why can't I copy anything I want?

It's against the law, other than in very specific circumstances, to make unauthorized copies of copyrighted materials.

What if I am faced with a special situation?

If you want to include copyrighted lyrics in a song sheet, arrange a copyrighted song for four baritones and kazoo, or make any special use of copyrighted music that the publisher cannot supply in regular published form, the magic word is... ASK. You may or may not receive permission, but when you use someone else's property, you must have the property owner's permission.

What if there's not time to ask?

That makes no difference. Think of copyrighted music as a piece of property, and you'll be on the right track. Plan ahead.

What about photocopies that are now in our church/school/library?

Destroy any unauthorized photocopies immediately. Replace them with legal editions.

Can I make copies of copyrighted music first and then ask permission?

No. Permission must be secured before any duplication.

What if I can't find the owner of a copyrighted song? Can I go ahead and copy it without permission?

No. You must have the permission of the copyright owner. Check the copyright notice on the work, and/or check with the publisher of the collection in which the work appears. Once you have this information, write to the copyright owner.

As a soloist, is it permissible for me to make a photocopy of a copyrighted work for my accompanist?

No. Permission for duplication, for any purpose whatsoever, must be secured from the copyright owner.

Is it permissible to print words only on a one-time basis, such as in a concert program?

No. Permission must be secured before any duplication. Using "just the words" makes no difference.

What about items that are out of print?

Most publishers are agreeable, under special circumstances, to allow reproducing out-of-print items, but again, permission must be secured from the copyright owner before any duplication.

Can I make a transparency of a copyrighted song for use by overhead projector?

No. The making of a transparency is duplication, and permission must be secured from the copyright owner.

Can I make a record or tape using a prerecorded instrumental accompaniment track?

Two permissions are necessary here. One is from the copyright owner of the selection to be recorded, and the second is from the producer/manufacturer of the original record.

Can I make a band arrangement of a copyrighted piano solo? Can I make a flute arrangement of a copyrighted work for clarinet?

No. Making any arrangement is duplication, and permission must be obtained from the copyright owner.

Use of a copyrighted work for any purpose (for church, for school, for a nonprofit organization; to be sold or to be rented; just for our church; for the text only; for a donation, not a sale; for emergency use only; for failure to locate the copyright owner; or for any other reason or justification) requires permission BEFORE any duplication or copies can be made.