Why get a licence?

Music plays an important role in our lives. This applies on a personal level, but certainly also on a business level. Music really adds something to a company.

It creates atmosphere for customers, supports the sales process and has a positive effect on employees. Music also adds significant value for the media. Music shapes the identity of a radio station or contributes to the atmosphere and content of a television programme. All the more reason to use music.

Creators deserve remuneration

Behind every form of music are musicians and producers. They work on this with great passion and are proud of it. Based on the Neighbouring Rights Act of 1993, musicians and producers are entitled to remuneration if their music is played in public.

When was music played in public?

When music is played outside the home, such as in shops, offices, restaurants, or on radio and television;

  • If music is played in a setting with more than two full-time employees or where guests or customers come;

  • If the radio is on in a company. Even though all radio stations have a licence, this is purely for their own music use. If you play music as a company, this ensures further distribution of music. This is then a new public performance for which a fee must be paid.

  • If an event is organised.

In all these cases, a licence is required for the public performance of music. These licence fees generate income that we pass on to our rights holders, the musicians and producers.

Wanneer is een licentie nodig?

A music licence is not required if a company employs fewer than three full-time employees and is not accessible to guests or customers. In that case, no licence needs to be purchased.

There are many ways to play music in public, such as via the radio, a music system or the internet. When it comes to music via the internet, please note that companies are never allowed to play music via streaming services such as Spotify, Apple Music or Deezer. These services are for consumers and may not be used for business purposes. Music via the internet can be played via narrowcasting.

Please note that in addition to a licence from Sena, you also need a licence from BumaStemra if you use music in public. Click here for more information about BumaStemra licences.