If you’re a musician or songwriter in South Africa, you’re probably eager to receive the royalties you deserve for your creative efforts. Registering your music with CAPASSO (Composers, Authors, and Publishers Association) is a pivotal step toward securing those royalties. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the registration process step by step to make it easy and accessible.
What Is CAPASSO?
CAPASSO is an organization dedicated to collecting and distributing royalties to composers, authors, and publishers when their music is used in public performances or broadcasted.
Why Register with CAPASSO?
- Royalty Collection: CAPASSO ensures that you receive compensation whenever your music is publicly performed, broadcasted, or used in any way that falls under copyright protection.
- Protect Your Rights: Registration with CAPASSO establishes your claim as a composer, author, or publisher, safeguarding your music from unauthorized use.
- Global Reach: CAPASSO is affiliated with international organizations, which means you can receive royalties not only in South Africa but also worldwide.
Step-by-Step Guide to Registering Your Music with CAPASSO
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Before you start, verify that you meet CAPASSO’s eligibility criteria:
- You must be a composer, author, or publisher of music.
- The music you’re registering should be original and intended for public performance or broadcast.
Step 2: Join CAPASSO
If you’re eligible, the first step is to become a member of CAPASSO. You can apply on their website or contact their offices for assistance. https://www.capasso.co.za/membership/
Step 3: Create Your CAPASSO Member Account
Once your membership is approved, CAPASSO will provide you with login details for your online member account. This is where you’ll manage your music catalog.
Step 4: Register Your Music Works
Log in to your CAPASSO account, navigate to the “Works Registration” section, and provide details about your music, including title, composer/author information, and usage categories. Accuracy is crucial.
Step 5: Define Usage Categories
Specify how and where your music will be used. This can include public performances, radio or TV broadcasts, live events, and more. Be detailed to ensure accurate royalty collection.
Step 6: Monitor and Report
Regularly check your CAPASSO account to review your works, track where they’ve been used, and monitor your royalties. Comprehensive reports are available to keep you informed.
Step 7: Notification of Performances
CAPASSO sends performance notifications when your music is used. Ensure your contact information is up to date to receive these notifications.
Step 8: Royalty Payments
CAPASSO distributes royalties periodically. Ensure your banking details are accurate to receive your payments without delay.
Additional Tips:
- Maintain detailed records of your music, including copyrights, originality, and proof of ownership.
- Register all versions and adaptations of your music to maximize royalty collection.
- Familiarize yourself with CAPASSO’s terms and guidelines to optimize your membership benefits.
By following these steps and actively engaging with your CAPASSO account, you can ensure that your music is protected and that you receive the royalties you’ve earned.
Don’t wait; start the journey to secure your music and earn the royalties you deserve. Register your music with CAPASSO today and ensure that your artistic contributions are recognized and compensated!