Licensing Music for a Recording - "Mechanical" Licenses

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Music publishers sell copies of music for live performances only. Licenses to make recordings or videos are sold separately.

"Mechanical licences" for recording published works should be purchased directly through the publisher.

Costs are usually based on the size of the intended market. If a choir is making a small-run promotional recording to sell locally to choir supporters, the license fee is generally quite low. However, if a major recording label plans to market the recording around the world, licensing fees are set to the industry standard. The best practice is to contact the publisher with details of your project, and ask about licensing fees.

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Licensing Music for a Video or Motion Picture - "Synchronization" Licences

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If a choir is making a promotional video that won't earn any money, the composer or publisher may give permission for use, or issue an inexpensive license. If a choir plans to market the recording around the world, intending to make a profit, licensing fees are set to the industry standard. The best practice is to contact the composer or publisher with details of your project, and ask about licensing fees.

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To purchase a "synchronization license" for a larger commercial venture, or to use music as a soundtrack for a video or motion picture, please contact SOCAN. The licence fee is based on the size of the intended market.

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Hillview Cottage Music - Licensing