Library or Production Music
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By Eric Huyton (Eyefish)
Music specially written for TV, Film, Radio & Advertising
Production music is written with the producer's needs in mind. It covers most genres and styles from orchestral to rock band and blue grass to hip hop. Often tracks are written to create specific moods, build tension, or convey emotion and there's usually a selection of music 'stings' of different durations which can be very useful.
Library / Production Music Libraries
There are well over a 100 production music libraries in the UK offering a wide range of music written with television in mind. They usually have a searchable database on their website and sometimes have a music researcher available to help you find what you're looking for. So finding something suitable is pretty straight forward.
Independant or MCPS
Music libraries fall into 2 categories: Independent or members of the MCPS.
1. Independant Music Libraries
Independent libraries charge you directly for the music you use. Rates and terms of use vary and there are some very good value deals to be had. You'll have to visit their websites and see what's on offer.
2. Music libraries managed by the MCPS (PRS for Music)
MCPS members are managed by PRS for Music who issue the licence on their behalf. A lot of the larger and established music libraries are members of the MCPS and they all charge according to a standard scale which is set out on the PRS for Music website. So it's very easy to browse a large selection of music and know exactly what it's going to cost you to use.
Rates vary but start at £ 35 per 30 seconds (or part thereof) for UK terrestrial TV use. Full details and a list of companies are available through the MCPS.
Getting a licence to use the music is very straight forward. Visit the PRS for Music website for loads of very helpful information.
See here for: Production Music Libraries managed by PRS for Music
The advantage of library music over commercial music is that one licence covers all rights in the sound recording and the musical work, so you don't need three separate clearances.
