The topic of music in Yoga classes was a big discussion point in a recent live call during our 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training. Music can be a magical addition to a Yoga class, setting the feeling and vibe for the class. However, it’s not required, and some might even consider it a distraction for your students. We love both approaches. We used to teach in-person classes with music and when we hear these songs again, it takes us straight back to these in-person classes. Music is powerful. We remember so often the poses would connect so beautifully to the music. The music would heighten the experience. But for our MerryBody classes, we typically opt for no music. However, we do include music in our Yin and meditation classes, thanks to Damiano Mex for composing our beautiful music.
One big reason to avoid using your favourite Spotify tunes in your Yoga sessions is the legal side of things. Understanding the legalities helps you steer clear of copyright issues. Plus, it’s key to recognise that every song is someone’s creation, and that’s why there are legal considerations. When you play a song in your class, you’re essentially benefitting from their creative work to enhance your class.
The Basics of Copyright when Playing Music in a Yoga Class
Copyright law grants creators exclusive rights to their original works, including music. This means that playing copyrighted music in a public setting, like a Yoga class, requires permission from the copyright holders. Failing to obtain this permission can lead to legal consequences, including fines.
We’ve done some basic research regarding music licensing, but we recommend you do your own research as these laws may change, and we are not legal experts.
Public Performance Licenses
In many countries, public performance licenses are required to legally play music in public settings, including Yoga classes. These licenses are typically managed by national organisations that collect royalties on behalf of songwriters, composers, performers and record companies. For example, these organisations include:
- APRA AMCOS in Australia
- PRS for Music and PPL in the United Kingdom
- SIAE for Italy
- BUMA/STEMRA for the Netherlands
- GEMA in Germany
- SACEM in France
- JASRAC In Japan
- KOMCA in South Korea
- ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC in the United States
We suggest heading over to the relevant organisation for your location, they can guide you on where to obtain the necessary license.
Alternatives to Traditional Music Licensing
If you’re looking for different ways to incorporate music into your Yoga classes without dealing with traditional licensing, here are some great alternatives.
Royalty-Free Music
There are many sources of royalty-free music available online, like Soundstripe. These tracks can be used without the need for a performance license.
Creative Commons Music
Some artists release their music under Creative Commons licenses, allowing you to use their tracks for free under certain conditions. Always check the specific license terms to ensure compliance. Sites like Free Music Archive and Jamendo are good places to find Creative Commons music.
Original Music
Commissioning an independent artist or (if you’re a musician) creating your own music ensures that you have full control over its use. This can be a more costly option but offers complete freedom and legal security. This is what we did with Damiano, who created our MerryBody Yoga music. However, he did publish some on Spotify over here. We used to play Savasana Journey at the end of each and every one of our in-person classes.
But I pay for my Spotify, YouTube, Apple Music Streaming service
Platforms like Apple Music, Spotify and YouTube Music offer subscription services for personal listening. These do not cover public performances, so they are not ok to use in classes without additional licensing. Just like you wouldn’t stream a MerryBody class for your in person Yoga class (unless you had permission of course).
But my local Yoga Studio, Dance class and Gym all play music!
Ask questions, perhaps they have paid for the licensing or perhaps they are unknowingly breaking the law. If they have the license sorted then great, you can use your favourite Spotify Yoga playlist!
Navigating the legal side of playing music in yoga classes can feel a bit overwhelming, but knowing your options and taking the right steps can keep you in the clear. By respecting copyright laws, you not only avoid legal hassles but also support the artists who make the music that enhances your Yoga sessions.
Always merrymaking,
Emma + Carla