[Fmpro] FMPRO Digest, Vol 37, Issue 5

[info]

Chris, 

I am piping in for two reasons. First to share my opinions about your ASCAP Composer Bill of Rights, but second to explain why I haven't piped in sooner, because, although I can only speak for myself, my motivations may be shared by those others who have not responded to you yet. 

First, about the bill itself: I agree with every item and you now officially have my "nod of agreeance". I also appreciate your taking action on this topic. I speak from personal experience when I say it's much easier to sit on one's butt than to take action. Especially when the course of action is not crystal clear. 

However, I thought you might want to know why it took one person so long to respond. I think it just now gelled in my own mind why I'm not so enthusiastic about the bill. It's not that there is anything wrong with the bill or the wording or the sentiment behind it. But it seems the true purpose of the bill is twofold:

1. To communicate clearly to ASCAP, that we are aware that instrumental composers are being screwed and precisely what they could do to fix it. 
2. To let ASCAP know that there is a large mass of us. 

Both purposes quite admirable. 

However, it all seems a bit pointless to me because I can't imagine that ASCAP is not already well aware that:

1. They're screwing instrumental composers and know precisely how they're doing it. 
2. How many of us are unhappy about it. 

I will be very happy to add my support to your final draft when it's ready, but I must say that I'll have a hard time feeling hopeful and enthusiastic about it.

Again, regardless of whether it ultimately bears fruit or not, thanks for taking action!!!

Doug Gallob


From: chris at alpiar.com<mailto:chris at alpiar.com>

> ... Meanwhile can everyone on this list prove to me that you are serious about your future and go read and make some suggestions or 
> even a grunt of approval for the ascap composer bill of rights? Just nod agreeance or rip it apart piece by piece, whatever feels right to 
> you

> http://composersforum.ning.com/forum/topic/show?id=773368%3ATopic%3A37019<http://composersforum.ning.com/forum/topic/show?id=773368%3ATopic%3A37019>