ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the conventions and constraints which create systems of interrelationships controlling musicians as individuals and in groups. It considers the ways in which the production of musical sound; personal expectations of musicians; the demands of the venue; and the laws of contract and copyright, critically shape habits of work and the character of the eventual musical performance. The chapter looks at several leading law cases which have influenced the music business and consequently the way in which individual musicians and musical groups approach professional and semi-professional work. The chapter describes the text of one of the very first cases involving professional music teachers and performer, the Christie family and the opposing party living immediately adjacent, a Mr Christie v. Davey. Second case involves the principal instigator of the events in the case of The Troggs-Larry Page. This case shows, among other things, the critical ties between management and publisher through copyright agreements.
