ABSTRACT
Guest author Paul Rutter presents a pragmatic discussion on contemporary challenges for creative and performing artists regarding value chains and the protection of their rights. Following Daniel Norgård's presentation in Chapter 8, Rutter explores historic value chains in music production and the importance of the creative studio domain. He comments on the driving forces of music-making and production; ownership in music-making and production; copyright policies and protection; and awareness of copyright and intellectual property in recordings and compositions—together with a discussion on international treaties provided by the Bern Convention.
Rutter focuses here on the role of music production associations and societies. The chapter gives a well-structured overview of independent global associations that represent and provide a point of contact for music producers to share knowledge, expertise, policies, and issues associated with music production practice.
The chapter highlights the importance of Legacy studios and DIY (Do-It-Yourself) studio cultures. The music studio, in its evolution, has become far more than simply a technological tool for the recording of a plethora of music productions but is an immersive arts environment, which arguably, should be supported and preserved by arts protection policies and funding.
The chapter also mentions support schemes in the UK, quoting Arts Council England's 2018 published work, Cultural Democracy in Practice. The report highlights “where Cultural Democracy is taken seriously, it can have a powerful impact on who engages, and the type of art and culture produced” (Henley, 162018). Rutter closes the chapter by pointing at the cultural global significance and impact of iconic recording studios in the UK and the USA.
