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Copyright is the legal protection granted to creators of original works, including music, lyrics and recordings. It gives copyright owners certain exclusive rights over how their work is used, reproduced and distributed.
What is copyright?
In music, copyright protects composers, lyricists, performers and other rights holders from unauthorized use of their creative work. Depending on the country, copyright may cover musical compositions, lyrics, sound recordings and other creative content.
Copyright laws differ around the world, but they generally give creators control over how their work is copied, performed, published, licensed and adapted.
Why is copyright important for piano players?
Understanding copyright is important for anyone who performs, records or teaches music. Piano players should be aware that sheet music, arrangements and recordings may be protected by copyright, and permission may be required for certain uses.
If you create your own original music or arrangements, copyright also helps protect your creative work and gives you control over how it is shared and used.