Copyright

Instructors can include music in instruction when it meets Fair Use or another exemption.

• Use brief clips or excerpts, not entire songs
• Tie the music to course objectives or learning outcomes
• Use music in a face-to-face classroom or password-protected system like Brightspace
• Avoid using pirated, unauthorized, or streaming-only versions

Fair Use can allow the use of copyrighted music in your class if it meets the four-factor test. Unlike print materials, there are no set limits for how much of a song you can use—but shorter excerpts are usually safer.

• Use music for analysis, commentary, or illustration of a concept
• Use only the portion necessary for your teaching purpose
• Provide attribution when possible
• Avoid copying full albums, playlists, or full-length recordings without a license

There are a few situations where copying music is clearly legal, especially when it supports teaching and learning.

• Purchase individual scores or recordings for classroom use
• Use sheet music provided by the publisher with permission for duplication
• Use library-licensed music collections that allow educational use
• Use works in the public domain or with a Creative Commons license
• Use links to library databases that have streaming audio such as:

Restrictions

Not all uses of music are allowed under copyright law. These uses may require permission or licensing.

• Copying sheet music for an entire ensemble instead of purchasing individual parts
• Sharing copyrighted recordings on open websites or YouTube (Just because a song is on YouTube doesn’t mean it’s legal to use. Stick to legal sources and instructional purposes.)
• Reproducing or arranging music that is marked “do not copy” without explicit permission
• Using music for performances outside the classroom without proper licensing