This is now the umpteenth time we’ve had to address this issue, and it’s important we get it right.
When uploading editions—particularly 20th-century ones—you must conduct research into the copyright status of all contributors (composers, editors, arrangers, etc.) by verifying their birth and death dates. Do not simply upload a file and move on without ensuring this information is complete and accurate. We’ve repeatedly emphasized that many of the editions you’ve uploaded appear to have been submitted without checking whether contributors are still under copyright (e.g., those who died less than 70 years ago, depending on jurisdiction). This poses serious legal and compliance risks.
Additionally, your uploads consistently lack essential metadata. At a minimum, each upload should include:
These details are not optional—they are critical for verifying copyright status, ensuring accuracy, and helping the community use and verify the material. While we appreciate that you’re contributing valuable files, the lack of due diligence in completing the upload form places an unnecessary burden on administrators, who then have to fill in the gaps.
If your uploads continue to lack this essential information—especially on the associated work page—they will be deleted without notice. This includes both the file and the work page, so you can start over and learn how to properly complete all required fields. Our goal is not to discourage contributions, but to ensure they meet the project’s standards for accuracy, legality, and usability.
If you’re unsure how to find or input this information:
Also, please note: the Stamitz 2 piano reduction you uploaded is an arrangement of an orchestral work. Such files must be uploaded using the "Arrangements and Transcriptions" tool—not under the "Scores" tab as an original composition. This is a fundamental distinction that affects categorization and rights assessment.
We value your contributions, but they must meet basic standards. If you continue to ignore these guidelines, further uploads will be removed without warning. Please take the time to learn the proper procedures and put in the necessary effort—this is a collaborative, volunteer-driven project, and we all share responsibility for its quality and integrity.
We hope you’ll take this feedback seriously and make the necessary improvements.
