*
banner

Bands urged to understand new licence regs

If you are looking at broadcasting music in the future then you need to understand if new PRS licences apply.

PRS
  The PRS offer a helpful schematic to see if the new licences apply

The Performing Right Society (PRS) and Mechanical-Copyright Protection Society (MCPS) have just issued new guidance on the rules for online concert broadcasts which certainly need to be understood and implemented, if appropriate, by brass bands.

Online content

A Small Online Live Concert Licence is now required by: "UK Promoters or venues wishing to live stream a small-scale ticketed event originating in the UK.

This includes DJs, classical and popular music as well as theatre and variety shows."

It may well affect brass bands who wish to produce online content — if access to the content is provided by sale of 'tickets' or purchased access to the audience.

Cost

Costs would vary depending on the revenue expected to be raised from the venture — with a licence costing £22.50 + VAT for less than £250 or £45.00 + VAT from £251 to £500.

If revenue is projected above this amount, PRS should be contacted direct.

More detailed information on whether or not these licences will apply directly to a banding organisation wishing to broadcast has thankfully been undertaken by some well known industry experts such as David Taylor and the Musicians Union.

Costs would vary depending on the revenue expected to be raised from the venture4BR

Further information:

Further information can be found at:

https://david-taylor.org/events/new-prs-rules-for-online-concerts-what-do-they-mean-for-you

https://www.prsformusic.com/licences/using-music-online/online-live-concert

https://www.prsformusic.com/royalties/online-royalties/online-live-concert-royalties

https://musiciansunion.org.uk/all-news-and-features/guidance-on-the-prs-online-event-licensing-tariff

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice. There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world. Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month.

Support us    


Blackpool Brass

A towering 60 years to be celebrated by Blackpool Brass

August 30 • The band from the famous seaside resort looks to celebrate its 60th anniversary later this year with friends and a few old Blackpool stars...


Brighouse

Cash prize increase for British Open winner

August 30 • The newly crowned British Open champion will win the largest cash prize in current world banding.


Kirkintilloch

Report & Result: 2026 West of Scotland Entertainment Contest

August 30 • Kirkintilloch continues their fine form with a return to the top at Troon.


nybbgb

Broadcast repeats of NYBBGB Summer Concerts

August 29 • You will be able to enjoy the performances of both the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain Childrens Band and the senior National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain on YouTube next month.


Regent Hall Concerts - Cross Bones Trombone Quintet

Friday 21 August • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Sherborne Town Band - Free-Music in the park

Sunday 23 August • Sherborne, Dorset-Pageant Gardens DT9 3NP


Sherborne Town Band - Free-Music in the park

Sunday 13 September • Sherborne, Dorset-Pageant Gardens DT9 3NP


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Grenadier Guards

Thursday 17 September • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - The Duchess of Edinburgh String Orchestra

Friday 18 September • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


CROFTON SILVER BAND

August 30 • CROFTON SILVER BAND - FIRST SECTION YORKSHIRE BAND. We are seeking a MD to lead a welcoming, ambitious, fun-loving group, passionate about making fantastic music and enjoying the journey together. . Rehearsals Monday & Thursday 8-10pm Fitzwilliam, Wakefield


Waltham St. Lawrence Silver Band

August 29 • Our inclusive non-contesting community band, based near Maidenhead, Bracknell and Reading, has vacancies for: . . Solo Cornet. Soprano Cornet. 2/3 Cornet. .


Waltham St. Lawrence Silver Band

August 29 • Our welcoming non-contesting community band, based near Maidenhead, Bracknell and Reading, has openings for: . Percussion, kit and tuned: a lovely pair of timps awaits you!


Jason M Smith


Band Trainer (Contest Preparation), Conductor


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd