Hi folks-
I have learned these tips over the years to help safeguard/protect your music.

The best way to protect your music is to register your music with the Copyright Office.
After my research, and reading all of the copyright forms, and circulars, The PA form is the correct form to use to submit an original song.
Always include the lyric sheets, and a tape or CD of your music. The sheet music is not mandatory-
To save $$$, copyright multiple songs as a collection- you can use a continuation form
if you need more space to list your material.

Keep all of your original drafts; lyrics sheets, arrangements, scores, notations,
recordings etc..

Police your material-
Keep logs of who, when and where you send your music.

If these things are done, one has a pretty solid case in court, if someone tries to use your music.

I personally, do not show my music to anyone, (with a few exceptions; my mother, or family or friends who are not in the business) never musicians- untill the work is coprighted. I am selective at that point.
Even your great ideas- for a title/ hook, or theme should be kept to yourself- unless you are co-writing with someone you feel
you can trust.

Many books say to pitch your music to as many sources you can, to get it out there.
Anyone who will listen- your neighbor, the mailman, etc.. That is up to you.
I feel, if you have a song you really feel is unique, radio ready, and feel confident you can get cut with a major artist on a major label, I would be more selective- and deal with the record companies in particular.
And then, be careful.Know who you are dealing with.
Never sell a song outright for cash-
or give up the publishing rights.

Cal



[This message has been edited by Cal (edited 09-24-2004).]

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