1. Copyright: If the music you are recording is copyrighted, you may need to obtain permission from the copyright owner(s) before using it in your play. This typically involves paying a licensing fee or royalty.
2. Public performance: If you are performing your recorded music in a public setting, such as a theater, you may need to pay a public performance fee to the copyright owner(s). This is separate from the licensing fee or royalty you may need to pay for recording the music.
3. Non-profit use: If your play is being produced by a non-profit organization, you may be eligible for reduced or waived licensing fees or royalties. Many copyright owners offer discounts or special terms for non-profit use.
4. Fair use: In some cases, you may be able to use copyrighted music without permission under the "fair use" doctrine. Fair use allows limited use of copyrighted material for certain purposes, such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, or research. However, the fair use doctrine is complex and has specific requirements, so it is important to consult with a legal expert if you are unsure whether your use of copyrighted music qualifies as fair use.
To be on the safe side, it is always best to obtain permission from the copyright owner(s) before using copyrighted music in your play. This will help you avoid potential legal issues and ensure that you are complying with the law. You can usually find contact information for copyright owners through online searches or by contacting the relevant copyright office.
Here are some additional tips for obtaining permission to use copyrighted music:
* Start early: The process of obtaining permission can take time, so it is important to start as early as possible.
* Be prepared to provide information: Copyright owners may require you to provide certain information about your intended use of the music, such as the title of your play, the dates and locations of performances, and the expected audience size.
* Be willing to negotiate: Copyright owners may be willing to negotiate licensing fees or royalties, especially for non-profit use.