music licensing costs

never heard of such a thing.... I always played whatever I wanted lol

I've heard that if they catch you they can fine you at least $10,000 for 1 song infraction. Pretty scary stuff actually.

btw, there are 3 licensing companies and they all cover different/ overlapping songs, from what I hear, so you basically have to pay all 3.

ASCAP quoted me $35/mo based on my number of students. BMI I believe runs about the same. Studio owners, they are actively looking for us. This is not something to be ignored. They are more than happy to get nasty about this. Make sure you understand what the laws are regarding music in your studio.

Thank you Trixie. That is helpful.

I do not play mainstream licensed music in my studio. All my music is local independent artists that are not registered with any of the PROs. If I really like someone's music and I'm doubtful of the no results I get from searching the PROs repertoire searches, I will contact the artist personally to get written consent to use their work in my dance classes. My area has a great ecclectic mix of music for my classes so this has worked really well for me. It can be overwhelming and a lot of hardwork at first but it has been worth it. I'm saving hard earned money and paying artists for their music directy (most offer their music free to download) and my studio is offering a platform for local musicians to showcase their work to an appreciative audience. I'm also not beating a dead horse so to speak by playing the same tired hits you hear all the time.

I'm so glad to hear that is working for you. I would love to help out local artists.

Kobajo that is a great option. I love it!