Copyright and Related Rights: A Guide for Performance Librarians

Abstract

The purpose of this handbook is to provide a condensed, central source for information on copyright and related rights specifically pertinent to the performance library and to provide some background on the regulations we are subject to in Canada. This handbook summarises major international agreements on copyright as well as the domestic law of Canada to make copyright clearer to the average librarian, musician, or administrator. Legal documents can be dense and confusing, but these summaries are intended to simplify and highlight sections and articles most relevant to the library. The differences between moral and economic rights will be outlined in relation to operations within performance organisations and how each of these rights affect the performance, broadcasting, and recording of music. Other topics, such as the term of copyright in Canada, licensing, grand rights, and considerations for touring will also be explored and related back to the library, and performance organisations in general.