How much do y'all pay for your music for "festival rights"?
Free would be wonderful, but if that doesn't happen what's a reasonable price? (limited budget here, think thesis project). For a known piece of music. Nothing mainstream, but something from a soundtrack of a motion picture.
Thanks very much.
p.s. I think of this as the opposite of asking animators to work for free. I know there's a price attached to using music, not to mention the legal reasons.
I counter offered $250 and am waiting for a reply.
I spoke to my teacher who asked around and the general consensus was a high price was their way of saying "No." Typically, 'festival rights' for student work is NOT a lot of money - although they can certainly ask whatever they want. I'm hopeful, but not holding my breath.
We shall see. Off to work on plan B.
Well hot diggity-dog! They said YES!!!
Terrific. Congratulations!
This might help you get started.
http://www.clearance.com/get_yourself.htm
http://dvinfo.net/conf/showthread.php?t=52426
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Thanks cartoonchaos, clearance.com is a wonderful resource and helped me get to the point I'm at now. I followed the DIY advice to the letter including the following:
If you have no budget for clearance, say so in your letter. However, publishers will often give priority to requests that offer a token fee ($25.00 to $100.00 per song) because it shows respect for the value of the copyright.
I got a quote from the record label for $500 for festival rights. I thought that was high (and out of my budget) so wanted to check in here. Maybe this price is a bit more up to date.
I have other musical options but if that doesn't work out, I'll just bite the bullet. I was curious if anyone had experience bargaining with companies? Should I counter offer for $250?
There is no standard amount charged for music clearances - the fee is determined by the songwriter and can be whatever they feel like charging. Additionally, there can be a time limit on your rights as well as screening limitations (like the festival rights you seek).
One thing is sure; it's better to secure the rights up front when you can negotiate some. If you decide to roll the dice and use the music without clearing it and the composer finds out, they can charge whatever they feel will compensate for their "loss", and you'll be on the hook to pay it regardless.
Go ahead and counter-offer; the worst they can do is say no.