The BBC, BBC Studios Music Publishing, The Ivors Academy and Musicians’ Union have collectively agreed new commissioning guidelines for media composers, setting clear and fair standards for composers working with the BBC.
The guidelines allow for clear negotiations for new commissions which favour the publishing interest retained by composers, commitments to prioritise human creativity and respect creators’ rights in relation to generative AI, as well as action to widen access for underrepresented composers through comprehensive data collection. The guidelines set out a fair and transparent approach to the pitching process and contracting, as well as clear recognition of additional music writers.
Lord Neri, CEO of The Ivors Academy: “The BBC has a long history championing music. These guidelines show what we can achieve together to protect composers’ interests and ensure their contributions are properly valued. We call on commissioners across the industry to sign up to these standards and help create a future where composers are treated fairly.”
Nicky Bignell, BBC Head of Music Rights: “We are proud to support standards that respect and value the creative work of composers, and we stand alongside The Ivors Academy and the Musicians’ Union to ensure the artistic contributions of their members are protected.”
Dom Walker, Global Business Director, BBC Studios: “I am delighted that we are able to share these guidelines in the spirit of continued transparency and collaboration.”
Naomi Pohl, General Secretary of the MU: “The BBC is the biggest employer and engager of music makers in the UK. We are delighted to publish these guidelines which will help composers to better understand the commissioning process and ensure they are treated consistently. The Ivors Academy and MU are working together to protect composers’, songwriters’ and musicians’ rights as Generative AI develops and these guidelines provide important protections for those writing for the BBC – we want other organisations to follow and make similar commitments.”
The BBC will also share the guidelines with independent production companies making programmes for the BBC.
