HOW TO LICENCE MUSIC-TH?NK MEDIA MUSIC
How to license music.
To use this music you first need to sign the MCPS production music code of agreement and obtain a 'P' number :
This is free of charge and can be done online at http://www.prsformusic.com/productionmusic/Pages/default.aspx When you're ready to use some music, you need to obtain the appropriate license from the MCPS (Mechanical Copyright Protection Society).
This can also be done online at http://www.prsformusic.com/productionmusic/Pages/default.aspx , or by calling 020 7306 4500 where a representative will be happy to help you." The license fee depends on the type of media the music is to be used on and the duration of music used. There is a full rate card online at http://www.prsformusic.com/productionmusic/Pages/default.aspx .
Using the music in a film, television, radio or non broadcast production requires an MCPS licence. The process is designed to be convenient and quick. You can apply for a licence online at MCPS or by using an Application for Music Licence form (AFML).
The MCPS publishes a Production Music Rate Card (updated every year) which details the rates (measured in 30 second units) for all types of productions and territories of exhibition anywhere in the world.
The licence for any one production is generally valid for an unlimited period but a new licence is required if the production is altered or if its use or territory is extended. Application must be made prior to any exploitation of the production.
Music details (title, composer and publisher) and track durations are required for each track used in a production. This will ensure that each composer receives their correct royalty from the licence.
The MCPS website is very helpful and will answer your questions on licensing production music. There are discounts available for larger users.
Performing rights in Thinkmediamusic and Thinkmediamusic music is licensed by PRS. The licences for such uses are generally the responsibility of broadcasters and venue owners. Producers should be able to provide music details to facilitate correct PRS royalty payments.
Application to use the music for ringtones, sampling, commercial releases or other (non sync) uses should be made to Thinkmediamusic.
We welcome your comments and feedback.
Useful links:
PRSformusic Homepage HERE
MCPS Application for Licence HERE
MCPS Production Music Rate card (download PDF) HERE
MCPS 'How do I get a licence?' HERE
Independant Production Company Blanket Licence
The Independent Production Company Blanket Licence (IPC) came into effect on 1 August 2007 and superseded the individual clearances formerly available for TV programmes.
New and reduced production music rates
As of 1 October 2008 there are now new TV programming rates for independent production companies that have signed up to the IPC licence. These new rates provide you with a simple and affordable way for you to obtain additional rights such as worldwide broadcast, DVD and online.
Per Series and Annual Blankets
If you are producing production series or a number of productions please discuss your requirements with your account manager or call the IPC team on 020 7306 4101 to go through how these new rates and discounts can benefit your productions.
| |
All media |
UK TV |
World sales |
DVD |
Online and mobile |
| Per 30 seconds |
£75 |
£35 |
£10 |
£25 |
£5 |
| Per Programme* |
£750 |
£350 |
£100 |
£250 |
£50 |
*There is now no programme length restriction
Production Music fees Prices per 30 second unit
This is MCPS’ standard approach to licensing Production Music and offers easy access to music at competitive prices.
Per programme rates
If a licensee’s total Production Music use fee (on a per programme basis) is calculated as being higher than that of the per programme rate then the per programme rate will automatically be charged.
- The UKTV rate for Channel Five includes the right to use production music within Five Life and Five US programming
- All TV programme rates also include +/- 30 day catch up for Video on Demand (VOD)
Once signed up to the IPC scheme the process is straight forward, submit your reporting in the usual way indicating to your account manager what rights and options you require for each production.
For more information on the I.P.C. blanket please click HERE
Useful address:
MCPS Licensing Services Department
Copyright House
29/33 Berners Street, London W1P 4AA
Tel: 020 7306 4500
Fax: 020 7306 4380
Email: rate.card@mcps.co.uk
Web: http://www.prsformusic.com/productionmusic/Pages/default.aspx

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