SESAC

Definition

SESAC, which stands for the Society of European Stage Authors and Composers, is a performing rights organization that manages the public performance rights of its members' musical works. It focuses on licensing and protecting the rights of songwriters, composers, and music publishers, ensuring they receive compensation for the use of their music in various venues such as radio, television, and live performances. SESAC is known for its selective membership, which distinguishes it from other performing rights organizations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. SESAC is unique among performing rights organizations because it operates on an invitation-only basis for its members, focusing on a smaller pool of songwriters and composers.
2. The organization collects performance royalties from various platforms such as radio stations, television networks, and live music venues, distributing the funds to its members based on usage.
3. SESAC also offers services like music licensing and publishing administration, helping artists manage their rights and maximize their earnings.
4. Unlike ASCAP and BMI, SESAC does not charge an annual fee for membership, making it financially attractive for some artists who seek representation.
5. The organization has a significant presence in genres like country, rock, pop, and jazz, representing a diverse range of musical talent.

Review Questions

• How does SESAC differ from other performing rights organizations like ASCAP and BMI in terms of membership and operation?
  • SESAC differs from ASCAP and BMI primarily in its membership model; it operates on an invitation-only basis rather than allowing open registration for all songwriters. This selective approach means that SESAC focuses on a smaller group of established creators, which can lead to more personalized services. Additionally, SESAC does not charge an annual fee for membership, unlike ASCAP and BMI, making it a potentially more appealing option for select artists seeking representation.
• Discuss the role of SESAC in protecting the rights of songwriters and composers through licensing and royalty collection.
  • SESAC plays a critical role in protecting the rights of songwriters and composers by managing the licensing of their works for public performances. By collecting performance royalties from various media outlets—such as radio stations and live venues—SESAC ensures that its members are compensated for their creative output. The organization actively monitors how often songs are played in public settings and distributes collected royalties accordingly, thus safeguarding the financial interests of its members.
• Evaluate how SESAC's selective membership impacts both its operations and its members compared to more open membership organizations.
  • SESAC's selective membership significantly impacts its operations by fostering a more personalized approach to artist representation and management. This exclusivity allows SESAC to cultivate deeper relationships with its members, potentially offering tailored support that larger organizations may not provide. However, it also limits access for emerging artists who may benefit from wider representation. As a result, SESAC's approach creates a unique balance between fostering high-quality talent while also possibly restricting opportunities for new creators in comparison to organizations with open membership policies.

Related terms

Performing Rights Organization (PRO): An organization that oversees the licensing and collection of royalties for the public performance of musical works on behalf of songwriters and publishers.

Copyright: A legal right that grants the creator of original works exclusive control over the use and distribution of their work, providing protection against unauthorized use.

Royalty: A payment made to the owner of a copyright or patent for the ongoing use of their property, often calculated based on the income generated from that use.