Complete guide on music authorisation for event organizers in Luxembourg

What are copyright laws and performance rights in Luxembourg?

Copyright laws in Luxembourg work to protect the rights of creators, including musicians. These rights cover aspects such as reproduction, distribution, and public performance of their work. As a creator, you have exclusive rights to your work, and anyone who wishes to use it must obtain permission, usually through an authorisation. Performance rights refer to the right to perform music in public. It is an essential component of copyright law, and any performance of a copyrighted work must be authorised by the rights holder or their representative. In Luxembourg, the Société des Auteurs, Compositeurs et Editeurs de Musique (SACEM) is the primary organization responsible for managing these rights.

What types of events require music authorisations?

In Luxembourg, any event that plays copyrighted music, whether it's live or recorded, needs a music authorisation. This includes a broad spectrum of events such as concerts, festivals and public gatherings. This might seem surprising, but copyright law doesn't distinguish between public and private locations - it is concerned with whether the music is being performed outside of a domestic circle. Therefore, if you're hosting an event where music will be played and you expect a considerable number of attendees beyond your immediate family and friends, it's wise to obtain a music authorisation.

What are the different types of authorisations available in Luxembourg?

There are two main types of authorisations you should be aware of. The first one covers the right to play copyrighted music in public. For example, if you are organizing a concert or a festival, you would need this type of authorisation. The second one, on the other hand, covers the right to reproduce and distribute music.

How to get a public performance authorisation for an event?

Obtaining a public performance authorisation in Luxembourg involves submitting an application to SACEM Luxembourg. This application should contain details about your event such as its nature (concert, festival, party, etc.), duration, and expected attendance. You should also include information about the kind of music you plan to play. If you intend to use a wide variety of music from different genres, include this in your application to ensure you're covered. It is advisable to apply for this authorisation well in advance of your event to ensure all permissions are granted in time.

How to properly declare your public events to SACEM Luxembourg, including online declaration options?

Declaring your event to SACEM Luxembourg can be done by filling out an online form. The form will ask for information such as the date of your event, location, type of music played, and expected attendance. It's important to complete this process well before your event date, and the more accurate information you provide, the smoother the process will be.

Additionally, if your event involves performances of original music by the songwriter, you can also register these performances with SACEM, which can help ensure the artists receive their rightful royalties. If you have any questions about the declaration process, don't hesitate to reach out to SACEM for assistance.