[Fmpro] FMPRO Digest, Vol 37, Issue 5

[Fernando Rivas]

Doug,

I agree. I'm sure ASCAP is well aware of the result of it's actions and
inactions. Like you I support the Composer Bill of Rights but it is not
likely to have results. I think it is a numbers game. There just aren't
enough score composers to make a difference.  The only way change would be
effective is if large numbers of ASCAP members sided with this issue and
forced ASCAP to change it's policy.  A better course of action might be to
undertake a massive publicity campaign to reach all ASCAP members and inform
them.  While many of them may not care, or may actually be opposed, there
may be a healthy percentage who might side with score composers if they feel
that they too might end up on the short end of the stick at some point in
their careers.

After all, if we (score composers) are getting screwed now who's to say what
may happen to songwriters down the road to make their situation drastically
less profitable. I know that the case can be made because already there are
several issues that would concern songwriters as well as score composers on
which ASCAP has been 'soft'.

As far as the argument that if we get a bigger share someone else loses
their share I don't buy it.  I believe ASCAP needs to be a far more
transparent and communicative entity than is currently the case. And that
attitude is not likely to change unless there is widespread dissatisfaction.

F.


On 5/4/08 11:31 AM, "info" <info at aural-hygiene.com> wrote:

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