Music Licensing Policy

1. Purpose

This policy outlines Salisbury DJ Academy’s approach to music licensing in compliance with UK copyright law. It sets clear guidelines on the use of music within the academy, including when a PRS for Music or PPL licence is required, and establishes standards for the use and acquisition of digital music files.

2. Legal Compliance

Salisbury DJ Academy operates in accordance with UK copyright legislation, including The Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988. We ensure that all music used in our educational activities is either appropriately licensed or used under permitted exceptions to copyright law applicable to education providers.

3. PRS for Music and PPL Licences

3.1 Educational Use

As an educational provider:

  • Salisbury DJ Academy does not require PRS or PPL licences for music used during regular sessions, lessons, or workshops held purely for educational purposes.

  • This is in line with guidance from PRS for Music and PPL, which exempts non-commercial (not for profit) instructional use within an educational setting.

3.2 Public and Paid Events

  • When Salisbury DJ Academy hosts paid events, fundraisers, or public performances, appropriate PRS and/or PPL licences will be obtained on a case-by-case basis. 

  • Licenses for upcoming paid events, fundraisers or public performances must be applied for at least six weeks prior to any licensable event taking place.

  • Event organisers are responsible for ensuring that the correct licences are in place before any paid, public performance takes place.

3.3 Student, Tutor & DJ Performances

  • Salisbury DJ Academy students and instructors performing at licensed venues (e.g., clubs, bars, festivals) do not require individual PRS or PPL licences to perform, as these are the responsibility of the venue.

  • Tutors, DJ’s and Students are encouraged to verify that the venue holds the appropriate licences prior to performing, especially for self-organised events.

4. Digital Music Use Policy

4.1 Legal Music Acquisition

Salisbury DJ Academy maintains a strict policy on the legal use of digital music:

  • Students and instructors are encouraged to purchase music legally from reputable and licensed sources, including but not limited to:

    • Beatport

    • ZipDJ

    • Amazon Music

    • iTunes / Apple Music

    • Traxsource

    • Juno Download

    • Sound Cloud

4.2 Prohibited Practices

  • The use of illegally downloaded or pirated music is strictly prohibited on academy premises and during academy-associated events.

  • Sharing copyrighted music files without proper licensing or permission is also not allowed under any circumstances.

4.3 Equipment and Music Checks

  • Tutors may conduct routine checks of student music libraries (held on academy provided USB drives) during classes to ensure compliance with this policy.

  • Students found using unlicensed or illegal music may face disciplinary action, including suspension from academy activities.

5. Responsibilities

  • It is the responsibility of academy staff, tutors, and students to familiarise themselves with and adhere to this policy.

  • Salisbury DJ Academy will provide guidance and support to ensure compliance and will review this policy annually to reflect any changes in legislation or licensing requirements.

6. Contact and Support

For any questions or concerns regarding this policy or music licensing requirements, please contact:

Salisbury DJ Academy – Licensing Officer
 📧 info@salisburydjacademy.org
📞 +44 (0)7917 729260

Policy Review Date: 23/07/2025
Next Review Due: 23/07/2026