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Publishing transcriptions of non-PD works

Posted: Thu Dec 04, 2008 4:29 pm
by musicnerd
I have a question and I will give an example so it's easier to be understood.
Let's say that I want to make an arrangement from some work of A. Piazzolla. I buy the original Score, then make the transcription to let's say Organ, or an Orchestra. Would I then be able to sell this transcription? Or am I violating something?

Posted: Thu Dec 04, 2008 5:42 pm
by Lyle Neff
Piazzola died in 1992. I would imagine you'd have to ask his publisher or estate for permission merely to write the arrangement, let alone sell it.

Posted: Thu Dec 04, 2008 6:02 pm
by Melodia
I believe making a personal use arrangement that isn't performed or shared is within your rights (at least in the US), but don't quote me on that.

It's certainly not anything that could be posted here, though, and certainly not selling it.

Posted: Thu Dec 04, 2008 6:07 pm
by vinteuil
As long as noone else ever sees it - or hears it...

Posted: Thu Dec 04, 2008 7:11 pm
by musicnerd
Hum I get the point, thanks for the answers.

Edit: And since we are at it, in order to clear the issue, if I make a transcription of a PD work , for commercial purposes, is that ok?

Posted: Thu Dec 04, 2008 7:41 pm
by nikolas
PD works: OK

NON PD works: Not ok.

In all honesty, I've been playing music for my friends for 20 years now (I play the piano and sing in good company! :D). I have never thought that the Beatles will come knocking on my door for playing "Let it be" to my friends, without paying royalties! Nor for whistling the tune while walking...

Private matters are private matters, selling is a whole lot of different business!

Posted: Fri Dec 05, 2008 1:28 am
by Yagan Kiely
Private matters are private matters, selling is a whole lot of different business!
However it is legal to (say) play 'let it be' at a pub or bar without permission providing the pub (etc.) is registered to APRA (or international equivalent).