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Music and Copyright

© Copyright LexisNexis 2026. All Rights Reserved.
26 June 2009 / Alistair Kelman
Issue: 7375 / Categories: Features
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Music and Copyright: Ronald S. Rosen

A more conventional work which carefully addresses the Idea/Expression dichotomy in music and the limits of protection for musical compositions—something which is lacking in the main practitioners works. Mr Rosen was the attorney for the composer John Williams who was sued for allegedly copying a phrase which he used in the score for the movie E.T.—The Extraterrestrial. After four years of litigation the dispute over a commonplace musical phrase ended successfully for Mr Williams and Mr Rosen.

The book, a practical guide, outlines the importance of expert testimony in cases involving music—and provides insights into some of the novel arguments which might today be presented in cases involving mash-ups. Its section on parody rights needs to be read by all copyright lawyers who dare to trespass on freedom of expression.
 

Reviewed by: Alistair Kelman, barrister & forsensic scientist. Longer reviews are available at www.alikelman.com

Music and Copyright
Ronald S. Rosen
Oxford University Press 2008 £107.50
ISBN-13: 978-0195338362

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