Is a phonorecord anything more than just a CD?

Question

The Copyright Website says that you need to send in a clear, audible phonorecord when attempting to copyright music. That means a CD, right? Or is there such a music medium called a phonorecord that I have to obtain? I hate to sound dumb but I just want to be sure. :/

Answer 1

a "phonorecord" is the legal term for a music recording that has been published and distributed. It is not the media, but the distribution that is a key factor. Media could be tape, LP or CD. However, Congress has specifically excluded phonorecords from qualifying as a publication of the music composition "for any purpose" which includes copyright.

An original recording per se is not a publication and not a "phonorecord". It seems you want a copyright registration for the music composition and not the recording. Such a copyright can only be registered in a "fixed form". While a recording might be accepted, the best legal evidence of fixed form would be a written tabulature of the music. most community colleges have a music department and they would be happy to help you write out your composition as sheet music.