Sheet Music Question.....

[Untersatz]

As an individual, if I own a particular piece of music (and complete set of parts) would any band that
I play in, legally be able to play this music in a public performance (concert) or would the band itself
have to own the music?

[Dan Schultz]

Seems to me that ORIGINAL sheet music can be used by anyone the owner chooses. However... performance rights is another matter.

[Untersatz]

That's exactly what I was thinking Dan! but isn't that what we do with concert band music?
Play concerts (in public) I mean that IS why they sell it..........right?

[Dan Schultz]

That's exactly what I was thinking Dan! but isn't that what we do with concert band music?
Play concerts (in public) I mean that IS why they sell it..........right?

Well.... maybe. Some publishers state that their music cannot be performed for profit... Others want ALL performances to be reported... and some simply don't care.

Mechanical rights (recordings) is another matter altogether.

There is no 'right' answer to your question other than to say you can allow your music to be used by anyone as long it is the original sheet music.

The Association of Concert Bands offers a blanket license for ASCAP and BMI but there are several other licensing agencies.