Copyrighting a musical?

[bobsstudio]

Hi again,

I've written the basic story, players, scenes and rough song titles.
I have yet to write the actual songs. These I will be co-writing with a composer in the UK.
I am going to do the 'poor-man's copyright' and send what I have so far to myself.

Can I 'officially' i.e.'Library of Congress' copyright what I have so far? Or do I need to have the actual songs completed?

Anybody had any experience of this and are there any books out there about the "Musical", pitfalls etc.?

Any help greatly appreciated.

Bob

[bobsstudio]

OK already found loads of info on-line about the musical thing.
Many saying you're nuts to do film/TV composition but completely bananas to try and do a musical........sounds like my thing!!

Still not much info on copyright.

Any info on that one still appreciated.

Bob

[Bruno Garza]

OK already found loads of info on-line about the musical thing.
Many saying you're nuts to do film/TV composition but completely bananas to try and do a musical........sounds like my thing!!

Still not much info on copyright.

Any info on that one still appreciated.

Bob

Not to piss you off but you don't ask musicans/composers legal advice, that's why we have attorneys.
Anyone here that gives advise isn't going to stand by you in a court of law, only an attorney will.

[bobsstudio]

Bruno,

Thank you for your worldly wisdom......you're so smart!

When I grow up I want to be just like you!!

[Bruno Garza]

http://www.robertguerrier.com/
Bob,
Nice website.
Cool video section.

[peter5992]

1. The US Copyright Office website is an excellent resource of anything related to copyright. http://www.copyright.gov/
2. You can copyright the play / script - separate from any songs.
3. Don't do the poor man's copyright thing - legally that is BS and your a deluding yourself into thinking you actually get some protection.
4. Sign a written agreement with your collaborator. Who ows what, who contributes what, how are you going to market your musical, et cetera. That'll save you a lot of headache going forward.

On 4, you may consult with a copyright attorney or educate yourself by reading books on copyright or studying the website.

I am an attorney but I no longer actively practice law (and I never practiced copyright or entertainment law), so don't take this as formal legal advice. There's a ton of information free on the internet if you do your research prudently. Also, the Copyright Office people are really helpful.

[bobsstudio]

Thanks Peter 5592 for your time and much appreciated advice.

Thanks Bruno on the feedback to my url.

I love Sundays!