use of music

Hi, I read the list, but this is my first time to ask a question..  

Could anyone offer assistance on these questions that were sent to me. My thoughts are -no problem for 1 and 2. I checked the copyright files-found recordings, but nothing for the individual songs. For 3 -need to contact the copyright holder and ask for permission and about fees. A group from the college is producing the video-theater faculty and students.  

We're now at the point with our Harbison History video when we're looking at options for background music. Before making any decisions, I wanted to check the copyright laws and status on a few pieces. I'd like to know the status of the following:  

1. "This Little Light of Mine" -- When I've done a Google search, I find it listed as "Negro Spiritual" without a composer's name listed
2. "Bringing in the Sheaves" -- Words by Knowles Shaw, Lyrics by George A. Minor (both from the late 1800's)
3. Any Italian opera, perhaps Verdi's Macbeth. I'd like to play opera music in the background. Would there be fees/royalties for both the company who performs? If we found an old recording, would this also apply?

For the first two songs, I was planning to use student or faculty musicians.  

Thanks for any advice you have.

Susan      

Susan G. Payne

Library Director

Midlands Technical College

PO Box 2408

Columbia, SC 29202

803-822-3419

paynes[_at_]midlandstech.edu   Received on Fri Feb 16 2007 - 05:10:06 GMT