Unauthorised photocopying is illegal and:

• composers
• authors
• playwrights and
• AMEB

depend on royalty income from sales of their publications to a significant extent.

Photocopies

In general, the Copyright Act prohibits the use of photocopied music.

Photocopies should not be used by candidates in AMEB examinations, unless an exception to copyright applies, or the relevant music publisher has granted permission for the candidate to make a copy.

In some circumstances, a copy of music may be required for use by the examiner. In these cases, if performing from memory, candidates should provide a published edition of the music to the examiner.

Diploma candidates must supply a copy of their music to the examiner.

Downloaded Musical Scores

Candidates may present for examination using scores that have been legally purchased and downloaded via online sheet music retailers.

Candidates who present for examination using scores that have been downloaded for free from sites such as IMSLP.org should note that they bear the responsibility to ensure copyright clearance for their use of this material has been obtained. Copyright laws differ between countries, and works that are in the public domain where such a website may be hosted may still be under copyright restrictions in Australia. Candidates should note that heavy penalties apply for the improper use of copyright material.

For more information please refer to the following:

• AMPAL guide
• contact APRA/AMCOS on 1300 852 388 or apra@apra.com.au
• AMEB Manual of Syllabuses (General Requirements, Practical Examinations), available to purchase at the AMEB Shop
• NSW Education Standard Authority copyright statement.