Frequently Asked Questions

Understanding the different types of music licenses.

An overview of the different license types in the music publishing industry.

What is a custom arrangement license?

If you are creating your own sheet music or lyric sheets, you require a print (custom arrangement) license. Read more about print licensing here.

What is a public performance license?

If you are performing music to the public (including at school), you might require public performance licensing. Read more about public performance licensing here.

What is a grand rights (or adaptive dramatic) license?

If your performance contains a storyline, narrative, or plot, you require a grand rights license. Read more about grand rights licensing here.

What is a synchronization (sync) license?

If you are videotaping or on-demand streaming your performances, you require synchronization licensing. Read more about synchronization licensing here.

What is a master use license?

If you are using a sound recording, you might require a master use license. Read more about master use licensing here.

Do I need permission to use choreography with music?

Marching bands, show choirs, dance teams, and other performance ensembles do not require permission to use copyrighted musical works to accompany a choreographed routine. Read more about the use of choreography here.

I am using a purchased sound recording "as is." Do I need permission to use the CD or MP3 I purchased in public performances?

Cheer teams, dancers, color guards, bands, and other ensembles do not require special permission to use purchased CDs or MP3 files in public performances.

Can I use ArrangeMe instead of obtaining print (custom arrangement) licensing for custom arrangements?

No. ArrangeMe allows arrangers to create and sell stock sheet music, but cannot be used to circumvent print (custom arrangement) licensing.

Can I obtain permissions from a songwriter directly even if the songwriter is represented by a music publisher?

Generally speaking, you cannot obtain a license from a songwriter directly.

Can I use AI generated music without permission?

It depends. Certain AI generated music might be copyrighted and the use of AI generated music in performances or projects can increase legal risk. Find out more about the use of AI generated music in this article as well as checklists for ensuring copyright compliance.

How much do songwriters get paid when licensing through Tresóna?

Why did my invoice change?

Understanding estimates, invoices, royalty fees, and most-favored nations terms.