Inspired by Lord Mansfield’s timeless principle (Donaldson v Becket, 1774) that copyright must both reward creators for their ingenuity and promote the progress of the arts through shared ideas, this 90-minute workshop offers music educators a practical introduction to copyright law.
We begin by untangling the layers of rights in music — from the different rights associated with a musical work to the separate protections for sound and video recordings as well as those for the performers. Learn how to determine when a work enters the public domain, when photocopying or posting performances online qualifies as Fair Use, and how to navigate resources like IMSLP responsibly. We’ll also address why seemingly “free” scores online may still pose legal risks, as well as the real-world consequences of infringement.
The session includes dedicated Q & A time to discuss your specific classroom scenarios, with best practices shared collaboratively.
About Warren lee
Warren Lee brings a unique trifecta of expertise: as a Steinway Artist and a composer published by the likes of Universal Edition, he creates intellectual property – from his multiple acclaimed recordings to his award-winning compositions. As the former Head of Global Business Development at Naxos Music Group who holds an MBA and a LLM in International Property Law, he protects and monetizes it. And as an experienced music director of leading schools, he implements solutions in school programmes that balance the two fundamental principles. This rare blend of artistic, legal, and educational experience makes him an ideal guide for navigating copyright challenges.
