recently in the USA commercial copyright violation involving more than 10 copies and value over $2500 was made a felony.

How does copyright affect a normal person not professionally involved in music?

The same way as it does the professional -there is no exception (e.g. see your license agreements,that came with your software). If anyone is using music under copyright for any other than strictly personal use - royalties are due !

This includes especially recording in any form, broadcasting, printing, playing /performing to audiences, or including for use with other media. Creating any duplictions or providing for it (copies) constitutes distribution, even when not for profit - as soon as there is more than 1 or 2 copies for personal use (or backup).you are in violation of the copyright.