Terrestrial radio is currently undergoing a major transformation. Using a technology called In Band, On-Channel (or IBOC), thousands of broadcasters are transmitting analog signals simultaneously with higher quality digital signals on their existing spectrum. For broadcasters, the transition to HD radio could mean the development of new revenue streams, either through the creation of entire new stations on these side channels, or through the leasing of their digital spectrum for data services. For musicians and listeners, HD radio holds the promise of a wider choice of programming. But will it mean better radio? read more

Security clampdowns since 2001 have made traveling by air or across international borders with instruments much more difficult, complicated, and frustrating. The following are some guidelines and suggestions to get you and your instrument where you need to go. read more

In the United States, royalties for public performances are paid to songwriters, composers and publishers. But what about the person who performs the song? When you hear John Coltrane’s recording of ‘My Favorite Things’ on the radio in the US, the estates of Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein — the composers of ‘My Favorite Things’ — are compensated through ASCAP. But the estate of John Coltrane receives nothing for this performance. However, if you hear the same performance on Sirius XM, or via a webcast, or on a cable music station — even on that terrestrial radio station’s webcast — both Rodgers and Hammerstein’s estates AND John Coltrane’s estate are compensated. Why the difference? US terrestrial broadcasters are exempt from paying a public performance right for sound recordings. read more

The Federal Communications Commission, Congress and the courts routinely examine media ownership rules. These debates set policies that govern traditional media, while establishing a regulatory framework that will dictate the future of the telecommunications and media industries. This fact sheet covers some of the issues relevant in the 2007 proceedings.

The Federal Communications Commission, Congress and the courts routinely examine media ownership rules. These debates set policies that govern traditional media, while establishing a regulatory framework that will dictate the future of the telecommunications and media industries.

Contents: read more