How do I copywright a song?

performing art works

follow these steps register musical work, dramatic work, script, pantomime, choreography, motion picture, or other audiovisual work:
step 1

make sure work performing arts work. performing arts works intended “performed” directly before audience or indirectly “by means of device or process.” included (1) musical works, including accompanying words; (2) dramatic works, such scripts, including accompanying music; (3) pantomimes , choreographic works; , (4) motion pictures , other audiovisual works.

note: performing arts registration not same registering sound recording. read more choosing correct registration method. register sound recordings, see sound recordings instructions. read more registration of musical compositions , sound recordings.
step 2

put 1 envelope or package:

* completed application form pa or short form pa , form con if needed (choose form use).
* $45 payment "register of copyrights."
* nonreturnable copy(ies) of material registered. (read details on deposit requirements musical compositions, motion pictures.

please read important notice mail delivery disruption.
step 3

send package to:

library of congress
copyright office
101 independence avenue, s.e.
washington, d.c. 20559-6000

registration becomes effective on day copyright office receives application, payment, , copy(ies) in acceptable form. if submission in order, receive certificate of registration in approximately 6 months." (note: experiencing processing delays.)"

more details, please see circular 45, copyright registration motions pictures including video recordings; circular 50, copyright registration musical compositions; circular 55, copyright registration multimedia works; , other informational circulars.

copyright office changing format of copyright registration certificates, part of pilot project involves registrations motion pictures , other audiovisual works. (read more)

notice: please aware when register claim copyright in work u.s. copyright office, making public record. information provide on copyright registration available public , available on internet.

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