PRS for Music announces revised live classical tariff

British copyright collective PRS for Music has today announced changes to its live classical licence which will come into effect from 1 September this year. The changes will see an increase in the rate paid by venues for performances of works by PRS members.

The new tariff will come into effect for performances taking place on or after 1 September 2023, regardless of the date tickets went on sale. From this point a new fixed rate tariff of 6.5% of box office receipts will replace the current rate of 4.8% which has been in place since its introduction in 2003.

PRS for Music classical relationship manager, Dan Lewis, said: ‘Live performance is vital to classical music and PRS for Music is supporting the financial future of the next generation of composers.’

The updated tariff also means that orchestras who are members of the Association of British Orchestras (ABO) will able to obtain a licence directly from PRS for Music, rather than going through their venues, making it easier for orchestras to plan their concert seasons. Amateur groups will be eligible for a 50% discount under this new tariff.

Barbara Eifler, CEO of leisure-time music association Making Music, said: ‘This new agreement makes it easier and more affordable for these small groups to do their bit to spread music creators’ work into every community in the UK.’

The increased rate was confirmed following three years of consultations with members of the classical music sector after the live classical tariff was put forward for review in 2019. Delayed by the covid pandemic, the new tariff announced today will see an increase in fees received by PRS members.

Composer Tansy Davies said: ‘I’m very grateful to the PRS for negotiating this increase for live classical performances. It means a great deal to feel that our work is properly valued. Artists want to contribute; crucially, this lift will help to maintain the level of artistry that is so needed in our society - faced as we are - with the vast and ever-growing complexities of everyday life.’