ABOUT US

Established in 2013, the Independent Music Publishing Forum (IMPF) is a network and meeting place for independent music publishers from around the world.

IMPF’s main objectives are to:

• Represent the interests of the independent music publishing community internationally;

• Share experiences and best practices in music publishing;

• Exchange information on the legal framework as it affects the music publishing environment;

• Coordinate and support projects relevant to composers and music publishers;

• Stimulate a favourable environment for artistic, cultural, linguistic and commercial diversity for composers and music publishers.

We want to take advantage of the incredible opportunities offered by the digital age. Our music should be available on every service, licensed easily and without borders. Our writers and our companies should be rewarded fairly for our collective work. IMPF is based in Brussels, the home of the European Institutions and with members and outreach in the USA and D.C. we are the first to know, discuss and act on policy and key legislation that affects our writers and companies.

Challenges We Are Facing

The music publishing industry is experiencing some dramatic changes. Digitally delivered music is moving consumers away from ownership towards cheaper alternative ways to access music. Mergers and acquisitions mean fewer companies which weakens independent publishers bargaining position. Online licensing is fast becoming the major source of income for publishers and writers, but we are concerned as we are not getting our fair share, the process is opaque and the return often minuscule.

Making Our Voices Heard

Copyright reform is currently under discussion at the EU, US and national levels. These reviews could result in a dilution of rights for copyright holders. Almost all Member States have transposed the CRM Directive into their national legislation, but the key issue remains as to how the aim and spirit of the Directive is implemented in practice. IMPF must ensure that independent music publishers are heard by all lawmakers. Publishers and collective management organisations are also coming up with new ways to provide reliable and affordable access to copyright information. IMPF believes in a realistic, macro-regional approach, providing fast integration of existing databases at the lowest possible cost.

"We feel that we have some issues that need to be addressed that are specific to our status as independent companies" – Pierre Mossiat

"Independent publishers need representation with that strength and impact just as much as, if not more than, independent labels" – Annette Barrett

"I joined IMPF because I felt there was a need for a collective independent music publishing voice" – Simon Platz