BBC agrees composer commissioning guidelines with Ivors Academy

The BBC and BBC Studios Music Publishing have agreed a set of commissioning guidelines with Ivors Academy and the Musicians’ Union.

The guidelines aim to establish fair standards for media composers. They allow for clear negotiations for new commissions which favour the publishing interest retained by composers; commitments to prioritise human creativity and respect creators’ rights in relation to generative AI; and action to widen access for underrepresented composers through comprehensive data collection.

The guidelines set out a transparent approach to the pitching process and contracting, as well as clear recognition of additional music writers.

The BBC will also share the guidelines with independent production companies making programmes for the BBC.

Tom Gray, chair of The Ivors Academy, said: “The BBC agreement is a pushback against all those who say we can’t do better. Creator rights can and must be protected. The Ivors Academy is proving time and again, whether it’s this or in gaining per diems for songwriters, that a strong creator organisation can challenge, change minds and deliver for the creators that power our growing creative industry.”

Lord Neri, CEO of The Ivors Academy, adds: “The BBC has a long history championing music. These guidelines show what we can achieve together to protect composers’ interests and ensure their contributions are properly valued. We call on commissioners across the industry to sign up to these standards and help create a future where composers are treated fairly.”

Dom Walker, global business director, BBC Studios, said: “I am delighted that we are able to share these guidelines in the spirit of continued transparency and collaboration.”

Nicky Bignell, BBC head of music rights, adds: “We are proud to support standards that respect and value the creative work of composers, and we stand alongside The Ivors Academy and the Musicians’ Union to ensure the artistic contributions of their members are protected.”

Naomi Pohl, general secretary of the Musicians’ Union, said: “The BBC is the biggest employer and engager of music makers in the UK. We are delighted to publish these guidelines which will help composers to better understand the commissioning process and ensure they are treated consistently. The Ivors Academy and MU are working together to protect composers’, songwriters’ and musicians’ rights as Generative AI develops and these guidelines provide important protections for those writing for the BBC - we want other organisations to follow and make similar commitments.”