Before you connect music from the radio, or use recorded (album) CD, or even simply connect a radio to your phone system for your on hold messaging content, you need to understand the law surrounding this. It is not all that simple. APRA Licensing is required by law to play any of the above audio services through your phone system, or you could find yourself in an unnecessary lawsuit. Here are some tips on what you can and cannot do.

The reason behind the licensing of playing music - from any source, even from the radio, is simply because they who either made it, wrote it, or played it are entitled to any financial gain that can be made from their work, known as royalties. In plain English, if you make it, it is yours, and you are entitled to do with it what you want and not anybody else has permission to use it without your express permission. This holds true in just about every area of work, art, or life - unless you are under the employ of another for that work.

Now it is true that some would disagree with this - at least in some aspects of it. For the purpose today there is no time to debate that issue in this article. Playing a CD from your favourite artist or connecting the radio is legally considered broadcasting. Like all broadcasters, you'll need a license to broadcast, and you'll need permission to broadcast licensed content like your favourite song from your favourite artist.

When you purchase a pre-recorded CD in a store such as Virgin Music, or download a legal MP3 file such as those sold from iTunes or Bigpond Music for example, only gives you the right (permission, or license) to enjoy private listening. If you in any way want to play it for the benefit of others, other than your immediate friends and family members, then that is considered broadcasting. Playing the music in a restaurant, bar, office, store, or putting it onto an on a digital on hold messaging machine requires a license.

In Australia APRA (www.apra.com.au) are the regulators of ensuring that musicians and artists receive their fair share. Licenses need to be obtained from them - depending on the songs played. Individual songs, or music from CD's used in an on hold environment need to be licensed by contacting APRA directly, they will provide you with costing information.

When you have a professional audio marketing company such as Reeltime to create your on hold message you know our on hold backing music used is royalty free. Reeltime pays a higher initial purchase fee for the privilege of royalty free music as part of your overall package. But don't worry, Reeltime Corporate Audio already includes this and it will be included in your price.

By working with a reputable on hold message agency such as Reeltime Corporate Audio, you can be assured that your messages and your company will not be the subject of front page news and you will not be singled out for additional payments and or fines surrounding copyright licensing. For the exact legal details, you can always check the APRA web site, or my recommendation is simply to inquire further with Reeltime Corporate Audio or your messages on hold provider.