Chapter 1 of 7
Module 1.1: What is a Copyright?
A copyright is a legal right granted to creators of original works, including music compositions and sound recordings.
Copyright protection gives creators exclusive rights to use, distribute, reproduce, display, and perform their work, as well as to create derivative works based on the original.
Key Points:
- Definition: A copyright is a form of intellectual property protection for original creative works.
- Automatic Protection: Copyright protection applies as soon as a work is fixed in a tangible form.
- Exclusive Rights: Copyright owners have the exclusive right to use and authorize others to use their work.
Module 1.2: The Legal Framework of Copyrights
Copyright law in the United States is governed by the Copyright Act of 1976, as amended, and is administered by the U.S. Copyright Office.
The law provides a framework for protecting creative works while balancing the public interest in accessing and building upon existing works.
Key Points:
- U.S. Copyright Office: The official government body that registers copyrights and maintains records.
- Legal Protection: Copyright law provides legal recourse against unauthorized use of your work.
- International Protection: U.S. copyrights are recognized in many countries through international treaties.
Module 1.3: Why Copyright Your Music?
While copyright protection is automatic once your music is fixed in a tangible form, formal registration with the U.S. Copyright Office provides additional benefits and legal protections.
Registering your copyright creates a public record of your ownership and provides the legal standing necessary to enforce your rights in court if someone uses your music without permission.
Key Points:
- Legal Ownership: Registering your work proves that you are the creator and owner of the music.
- Control Over Usage: As the copyright holder, you decide how your music can be used.
- Monetization: Copyrighted music can be licensed to third parties for a fee.
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