It's almost a mandatory part of birthday celebrations across the country and beyond...the “Happy Birthday to You” song.
One company just lost a big legal battle surrounding copyright claims on the song. A copyright is the legal right to be the only one to reproduce, publish, or sell the contents and form of a literary, musical, or an artistic work.
A federal judge ruled that Warner Music Company's claim to the 120-year-old song wasn't legal, therefore freeing it from copyright. The ruling came amid a lawsuit challenging the company's attempt to fine a group of filmmakers $1,500 for the song's use.
The basic tune of the song is based on another popular children's song," Good Morning to All", which has long been in what's called the public domain. Works in the public domain are available to the public as a whole and not subject to copyright.
Instructional Links
Website Articles & Videos: Ultimate Guide to Copyright for Students
http://www.whoishostingthis.com/resources/student-copyright/
Interactive Tutorial: INFOhio, Go! Ask, Act, Achieve
http://go.infohio.org/achieve/presenting
Students about plagiarism and how to cite sources.
Interactive Website & Videos: Copyright in a Copy Paste World
http://www.micron492.com/please_dont_cheat/
Information and lessons for teachers and students