Photocopying from Music Publications at School

Licences: Collective Worship Copyright Licence (CWCL) and the Collective Worship Music Reproduction Licence (CWMRL)

Photocopiers are commonplace in many schools today making it easy for teachers to photocopy from a wide variety of song books.

If you photocopy from song books you must first ensure that you have obtained permission from the copyright owner.

However, the prospect of contacting every copyright owner each and every time you wish to reproduce one of their songs can be daunting. It was for this reason that CCLI introduced the Collective Worship Music Reproduction Licence (CWMRL), ensuring that copyright owners are properly rewarded for the use of their work and giving churches the freedom to use songs without the hassle of having to contact many different copyright owners.

The CWMRL permits you to photocopy words and music directly from authorised music publications such as

With both the CWCL & CWMRL you can:

• Photocopy the words and music of hymns and worship songs directly from authorised music publications.
• Type song words into your computer and store them for later use.
• Create your own service sheets and handouts for pupils and staff.
• Create your own OHP acetates.
• Create your own song words database for use with projection software.

The number of publishers covered by this licence increases continually. Click here to view the list.

Licence Fees:

Licence fees are based on the number of pupils on the school roll and are available here.

Using your CWMRL:

• Copyright lines - At the bottom of each photocopy you must write: Copied by permission. CWMRL Licence No. [Your Licence No.]
• Reporting - Under the Terms of Agreement of your licence you are also required to report which songs you photocopy. Click here for CopyReport.
• Contact Details - As your licence is held by your school you are required to provide CCLI with contact details so we can contact you with updates to your licence.

If you would like to reproduce song lyrics only (without photocopying any music) please see the Collective Worship Copyright licence.

Not sure which licences you need?

Check the Quick Guide Licence Table

Links to: SongSelect / Licence Fees / Create / FAQs / Terms of Agreement / CopyReport