What Resources are Available for Aspiring Musicians?

Music is a popular topic of interest for library patrons. A very common and often difficult reference question to answer is “How do I make it in the music business?” or “How do I copyright my song?”

To start, learn more about the patron’s information need. Do they just want to copyright one song? How familiar is the patron with the music business? After conducting a reference interview, establish the type of resource that will be best for this particular patron.

If a patron wants to know how to copyright their song or is wondering about licensing music; Web sites are usually the best resource as the information is current, and often includes forms and filing procedures.

The United States Copyright Office is very useful for music business questions. Copyright terms are explained and telephone help-line numbers are provided. Copyright forms can be printed from this Web site, filled out, and mailed to the Copyright Office.

If the information need of the patron is more general, such as “How do I make it in the music business?” or “How can I find a record deal?,” a book that gives an overview of music business may be the best option.  Some recommended books include:

• All You Need to Know About the Music Business by Donald S. Passman, a law professor who is a practicing music attorney.
  
  
• This Business of Music: The Definitive Guide to the Music Industry by M. William Krasilovsky, includes a CD-ROM with copyright regulations, forms, and other contracts.

For additional resources and Web sites, check the Music Business subject guide.