Legal Question in Intellectual Property in New York

Video Copyright

If one does a video showing how to play a song on a musical instrument, do you need the consent of the song writer? The song would be played in parts showing how it's done.


Asked on 2/16/07, 4:09 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

Steven Mark Steven Paul Mark, Attorney at Law

Re: Video Copyright

I'll assume you're not a school and this is not an educational, non-commercial activity but that you intend to sell the video for profit. If my assumptions are correct, this would not be a fair use and you would require permission from the owner/administrator of the song. The usual rates for such a use are not very expensive so you should seek permission. It's relatively easy to do and not expensive if you have a knowledgeable attorney or other person who regularly clears music. If the music publisher is one of the majors (e.g., Universal, EMI, BMG or Warner/Chappell, you can usually do it through their websites.

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Answered on 2/16/07, 4:32 pm
Johm Smith tom's

Re: Video Copyright

Feel free to contact me to make this simple and legal.

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Answered on 2/16/07, 5:56 pm


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