Music and sound effects can elevate a multimedia project—creating emotional connections and immersing viewers in the story. However, it is essential that all audio used in Gardner-Webb productions complies with copyright law.
In order to avoid copyright violations and the resulting liability to the University and individuals, all music used in connection with all University activities must be legally sourced. This includes all social media posts, promotional videos and websites, sporting events and rallies, public performances and ceremonies, concerts, dramatic works, educational programs, promotions of athletic teams, departments, Schools and Colleges, etc.
Examples of the platforms and uses for which all music must be legally sourced include the following:
To support university-wide use of music without fear of copyright infringement, Gardner-Webb provides faculty, staff and students with unlimited free access to Universal Production Music, an online music and sound effects library. This library contains thousands of high-quality tracks and a powerful search function. Universal makes it easy to find the right music and sound for your project. Live chat and technical support are also available through the platform. Please Note: All resources from Universal Production Music are licensed for Gardner-Webb promotional and academic purposes only and may not be used for personal or commercial projects.
“Fair use” allows limited use (typically no more than 10%) of portions of copyrighted material for teaching, scholarship, and research, such as in the classroom only. If there is any uncertainty about the legality of the use, instructors should use only music from the Universal catalogue.
After music enters the “public domain” it may be used, shared and adapted without copyright violation. For musical compositions first published before 1926, they are likely in the public domain. For works published after that date, the copyright generally expires 95 years after its first publication.
But note: While a musical composition (the melody and lyrics) might be in the public domain, a specific recording of that song may still be under copyright, and therefore not public domain. Example: George Gershwin’s original composition of “Rhapsody in Blue” is in the public domain. However, a recording of “Rhapsody in Blue” by a particular orchestra or performer is protected by copyright until that particular recording has been in publication long enough to itself have entered the public domain.
Do not rely on lists of music supposedly within the public domain posted on the Internet. Again, if there is any uncertainty about the legality of the use, the music should be sourced from the Universal catalogue.
Gardner-Webb holds licenses that allow certain copyrighted music to be played on campus, such as choral and orchestral performances, plays, dances, and events with DJ services. However, these licenses are specialized and limited. They do not cover any other use, including social media or websites, broadcasts, streaming, posting, videos, podcasts music in a recorded video, or posting music or performances on social media or websites.
If you have questions about usage or need assistance, contact:
Failure to follow this policy could lead to revocation of the violator’s privileges to use or post music or sound recordings and/or additional sanctions. Supervisors are responsible for making sure that all their subordinates follow this policy and that all audio used by their subordinates is legally sourced.
