Reproducing Song Words at Events

Licence: Church Copyright Licence (CCL)

Many event organisers now reproduce the words of hymns and worship songs for use in worship services.

Every time you reproduce song words, you must first ensure that you have obtained permission from the copyright owner.   This can be a costly and time consuming process.   To simplify matters, CCLI has introduced the Church Copyright Licence which covers songs owned by publishers and song writers, providing the licence holder with an affordable solution to their copyright needs.     

The CCL Event Licence is available for both Youth and Adult events and provides the same rights as the annual licence, but last only 14 consecutive days.  

• Type song words into your computer and store* them.
• Create your own service sheets and handouts for your congregation.
• Create your own OHP acetates.
• Create your own song words database for use with song projection software.
• Audio/video record music from your services for those unable to attend, or as a keepsake.

The number of publishers covered by this licence increases continually. View the list.

Licence Fees:

Licence fees are based on maximum atttendance at any one time at your event. See the prices 

Apply Now:

To purchase your licence Download the application form and return to CCLI with your payment or contact us.

Using your CCL:

• Copyright lines - Each time you reproduce song lyrics you must include the following information, regardless of the format you are using.
  [author], © [year, owner], [your licence number] eg.
  Fred Smiley, © 2007 Happy Music Ltd., CCL Licence No. 123456

If you have made a service sheet/book, you only need to include author, date and owner details underneath each song with the following acknowledgement somewhere in the sheet/book:

All songs covered by CCLI have been reproduced under the CCL Licence No. [your licence number].

• Reporting - Under the Terms & Conditions of your licence you are also required to report which song lyrics you reproduce. Click here for CopyReport.

• Contact Details - As your licence is held by your event/conference you are required to provide CCLI with contact details so we can contact you with updates to your licence.

Photocopying?

Many event organisers often require the Music Reproduction Licence (MRL) in order to photocopy words and music direct from authorised song books.   You you can find more information about this licence here.

Not sure which licences you need?

Check the Quick Guide Licence Table.