(I want to arrange a work.) What can I do if the author of the work is unknown?

To adapt a work lawfully, you must obtain the consent of the rights holders. You should therefore carry out research into composers, lyricists and performers before making an enquiry, using work databases (e.g. the GEMA repertoire search, CISAC databases), music archives, sheet music, booklets, label information, publishers’ catalogues, specialist literature and archives. Without details of the copyright holder, a legally compliant adaptation is not possible. Once you have gathered all the relevant information, please contact mitgliederservice@gema.de as a GEMA member. GEMA clients should direct their enquiries to the GEMA Customer Centre: kontakt@gema.de.

You can check whether the work is in the public domain:

In Germany, copyright protection generally expires 70 years after the author’s death. If the work is definitely in the public domain and the original author is unknown, you can register your own adaptation with us as follows:

• In the work registration section of the GEMA online portal, enter the number 39657154 in the ‘IP-Name-Number’ field,

• select ‘DP’ and confirm,

• in the role field (e.g. composition), tick the box for ‘in the public domain’ and confirm.

Important: An adaptation of a work that is still protected without the consent of the rights holders is legally prohibited and may be a criminal offence. If you have any legal doubts, we recommend seeking advice from a solicitor.