Why Supporting Composers Matters: How Your Choir Can Help
Every time your choir performs a piece of music, you’re not just sharing a beautiful arrangement with your audience; you’re engaging with the work of a composer who spent time, skill, and creativity crafting it. That music didn’t appear out of nowhere; it exists because someone put in the hours to write, arrange, and publish it.
Behind every piece of sheet music is someone whose livelihood depends on that music being used legally. And while it might seem like a small thing to photocopy a few extra parts for rehearsal or share a PDF on a WhatsApp group, these actions can have a serious cumulative impact when they go unreported or unpaid.
In most cases, we know copying doesn’t happen out of malice but because people simply don’t realise it’s an issue. For years, it’s been common for choirs to copy music informally when a singer forgets their copy, or because someone wants something lighter to carry than a book during a performance, or because buying another full set didn’t feel justifiable for one extra part. These moments feel like practical solutions in the short term, but over time, they erode the value of the music itself.
This is where licensing comes in. A PMLL Amateur Choir Licence gives choirs the ability to copy and sheet music legally, ensuring that composers and publishers are fairly paid for their work. It covers thousands of works from major UK publishers and allows practical solutions, like making extra copies for your rehearsal folder or without putting anyone at risk.
By using a licence and logging your usage, your choir helps ensure that future generations of composers can continue to write the music you love to sing. It’s not just about staying compliant, it’s about being part of a responsible and sustainable music community.
When we model respect for copyright, we create a culture that values the creative effort behind every note. Find out more about printed music copyright.
If you’re not sure whether your choir needs a PMLL licence or you’re unclear about what’s allowed, we’re here to help. Taking a moment to check now can make a big difference. Not just for your choir but for the entire ecosystem of music-makers we all rely on.
