Royalties from Performances & Broadcasts
Performing Rights Organizations (PRO) ensure that composers and publishers are paid for the use of their music by collecting royalties on their behalf for performances of their music in concert halls, colleges, television, radio, almost anywhere where music happens. Royalties are divided 50/50 between the writer (composer) and the publisher. If you do not have a publisher, YOU are the publisher, which means you retain 100% of the royalties. In order to do make sure this happens, the composer must register as both a writer AND publisher.
Now, how do I sign up to become a member of one of these PRO's? Well, first you should know that there are two organizations that most composers are members of: ASCAP and BMI. Research into these two groups and contact their offices to get a feel for which PRO you might feel most comfortable with. The difference between the PRO's seems negligible in terms of royalty payout.
Instructions on how to become a member of ASCAP and what you should do afterwards is coming soon! (updated August 2016)
Now, how do I sign up to become a member of one of these PRO's? Well, first you should know that there are two organizations that most composers are members of: ASCAP and BMI. Research into these two groups and contact their offices to get a feel for which PRO you might feel most comfortable with. The difference between the PRO's seems negligible in terms of royalty payout.
Instructions on how to become a member of ASCAP and what you should do afterwards is coming soon! (updated August 2016)