A Resource from National Association for Music Education and National Federation of High Schools

The primary permissions provider for a musical work is the copyright holder(s). In most circumstances, the music publisher holds the copyright for the work and can grant synchronization, mechanical, and public performance licenses. Public performance licenses may also be obtained from the appropriate Performance Rights Organization (PRO), such as ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC. It is important to identify all potential rights implicated on a per-use basis, and to secure the appropriate permissions.

This guidance includes examples of different performance scenarios and the licenses required for each. Updated 2023.

April 2025 Teaching Music Magazine cover. Read the all new Teaching Music Magazine.

Category

  • Copyright
  • Educational Topics

Year Added

2023

The Peabody Preparatory's Baltimore Beat Lab music production classes begin June 23. Johns Hopkins Peabody Preparatory
Lee University Graduate Studies in Music offering a Master of Music in wind conducting, performance, choral conducting. Learn more. Music with purpose.
The Peabody Preparatory summer session for music and dance begins June 20. Johns Hopkins Peabody Preparatory