Copyright Issues and the PRS

Subject: Copyright Issues and the PRS
From: nutty
Date: 10 Mar 05 - 06:52 PM

This is an issue that was raised in another thread but I believe is important enough to have a wider audience.

Someone posting on the thread stated .....

my understanding of PRS rules is that copyright-owners' permissions aren't necessary for material used on a limited-availability production (under 500 copies).

When I queried this the gentleman concerned replied ......

I can only tell you what it says in the PRS' application form, on their website, and also what they told me verbally, in connection with 'Limited Availability Productions'.

They specifically state that permissions are not required for Audio CDs where the total number to be produced is limited to 500 copies or less. I know of several artists who have produced such CDs and they have done so on this exact premise. Here's what it says under 'Educational and Limited Availability Productions on their website:-

"MCPS has recently introduced a scheme to mlicence non-corporate audio and audio-visual productions that have a total run of under 500 copies. Although this licence allows easy access to MCPS members' repertoire without the need for obtaining permission from each individual copyright owner, there are several exclusions that apply".

I feel people should be aware that such information only applies to material registered with PRS (where PRS have effectively taken over the ownership of the copyright) and has no relevance to material that has not been registered.
In this case permissions still need to be obtained from copyright holders.

Subject: RE: Copyright Issues and the PRS
From: Malcolm Douglas
Date: 10 Mar 05 - 08:24 PM

They should also be aware that, in law, royalties are payable to the copyright owners no matter what the print run, and regardless of whether or not the recordings are sold for a profit.

Subject: RE: Copyright Issues and the PRS
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 11 Mar 05 - 07:00 PM

Please.

Distinguish PRS - performing right

MCPS - mechanical right.

Also differences about membership structure.

Subject: RE: Copyright Issues and the PRS
From: pavane
Date: 17 Mar 05 - 07:49 AM

As I understand, permissions may not be needed, but you still pay the corresponding royalties to the MCPS, whould would distribute them as appropriate.

Subject: RE: Copyright Issues and the PRS
From: GUEST,The Barman - www.FyldeFolkForum.co.uk
Date: 17 Mar 05 - 09:03 PM

The Barman


The above forum covers such issues - there have been some changes re MCPS Implied rights to proceed with "pressings" over the last few months Not everyone is registered with MCPS (by a long way!) remember as well we're are talking UK.

The Barman