Copyright Basics

The Christian Songwriter Resource Page

The process of registering your work with the U.S. Copyright Office may seem like an unnecessary, and potentially costly, formality. It would seem that writing songs for the Christian music industry would not require the same precautions as writing for the secular market. Unfortunately, any business in which there is money to be made is potentially hazardous. Thus, it's always a good idea to legally register any songs which are being published, performed, etc.


Copyright Basics

Form PA - For registering published and unpublished musical works
Form VA - For registering published and unpublished visual arts
Form SR - For registering published and unpublished sound recordings
Form CA - For supplemental registration or correction


US Copyright Office Home Page

Circular 50 - Information on registration of musical compositions
Circular 56a - Information on registration of musical compositions and sound recordings
Circular 56 - Information on registration of sound recordings


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© 1997 Thomas H. Whitaker
E-Mail me at twhitak@clemson.edu
Last Revision: August 9, 1998