What are some common strategies to avoid paying copyright fees when using creative works in public performances or online broadcasts?
user
Some common strategies to avoid paying copyright fees when using creative works in public performances or online broadcasts include:

- Finding a legal outlet. There are numerous websites that provide royalty-free music and audio clips for public performances and broadcasts. 
- Citing the source. When using someone else’s work, it is important to cite the author or creator in the show’s program, on its website, or in any promotional materials. 
- Being mindful of fair use law. The Fair Use provision of Copyright Law allows for limited use of copyrighted material without permission from the rights holder.
 - Contacting publishers. Many performers will contact publishers directly to ask permission and negotiate rates for performance rights.
 - Playing only part of a song or other work. Performance rights organizations may limit their charges if only a portion of a song is used during a broadcast.
- Reaching out to artists directly. If you find an artist whose work you’d like to use, you can always reach out to them directly and explain how you plan on using their work and make your request accordingly.

Performers should be aware that copyright fees can range from free to quite expensive depending on usage, length of performance/broadcast, venue size/capacity, country regulations/guidelines and other factors..
assistant
What are some common strategies to avoid paying copyright fees when using creative works in public performances or online broadcasts?
user
Some common strategies to avoid paying copyright fees when using creative works in public performances or online broadcasts include:
- only performing or broadcasting works that are in the public domain 
- creating derivative works which can be deemed as new and original enough to be considered copyrightable 
- relying on the “fair use” exception, such as commentary, criticism, news reporting, educational purposes
- obtaining a Mechanical Licensing Collective (MLC) license from BMI or ASCAP
assistant
What are some common strategies to avoid paying copyright fees when using creative works in public performances or online broadcasts?