Frequently Asked Questions

How long should a CD be?

The best length for your CD depends upon the repertoire you want to record, but I would usually urge a maximum of 50 minutes. It is very tempting to try to fill the CD up to the 74 minute maximum, but this will result in less recording time for each piece during the session. You also have to consider the listener and whether they are more likely to listen to half of an hour long record, or all of a 45 minute disc.

What if our requirements don't fit your package?

Panphonic recording packages are designed as a straightforward way to produce a great sounding CD. However, if you have different requirements we will be more than happy to tailor our package to fit your needs. Contact us and we will give you a tailored quote.

Is the music we want to record in copyright?

Music copyright in the United Kingdom is generally valid until 70 years after the composer's death, at which point they become public domain. There are also examples where new editions of public domain music are accompanied by copyright on the edition. If you have any copyright queries about a proposed project, just contact us and we will be able to advise you.

What are MCPS license fees, and will I need to pay them?

If any of the music you wish to record on the record is in copyright, you will have to get clearance to use the music on your record. The Mechanical Copyright Protection Society (MCPS), can license the use of most copyright music for physical products in the UK. They provide a license which is perfect for records made by amateur ensembles called the Limited Manufacture (LM) license. This license can cost anything from £5-£250 depending upon the amount of copyright music included on the CD. For more information click here to visit the MCPS website.

What are Hire Recording Fees, and will I have to pay them?

If you have hired music from a music publisher for your recording, they often charge extra fees for the use of this music in a recording. We can help you negotiate these fees with publishers if necessary. If you have bought the music, then these fees will not be applicable.

Who owns the copyright to the recording?

The copyright of the finished recording belongs to the ensemble or organisation.

What do we have to do to confirm a recording session?

Once we have discussed your requirements, we will provide you with a quote. If this quote is satisfactory, then we will require a 20% deposit on the recording fee in order to complete booking of the recording.

Email: mail@panphonic.co.uk Telephone: 07906 295509