In short, yes! One Church Software does not provide copyright licensing and is not responsible for misuse. Sharing copyrighted content (i.e. audio, song charts, lyrics, etc.) without a valid license is illegal. Ensure that the copyright is owned (i.e. original music) or that licenses are in place to distribute them electronically.
Overview
The Church Copyright License from CCLI covers copying activities that assist with congregational singing, including computer projections, song sheets, bulletin inserts, recording the service, and more. It does not, however, include sharing audio files recorded by someone else or sharing published chord charts or sheet music. To legally share published chord charts or sheet music, a separate license is required.
Contact Christian Copyright Solutions (CCS) for more information about other copyrights or for help in obtaining licenses for songs that aren't covered by CCLI.
Important: almost all churches need Church Copyright License from CCLI, even if just to show lyrics to a congregation.
Licensing
The Church Rehearsal License by CCLI allows audio to be shared with the team for rehearsal purposes.
SongSelect by CCLI is a subscription with tons of printed music, but there is only one master version of each song (i.e. no additional arrangements).
PraiseCharts have different arrangements for each song, but each file must be purchased separately.
PERFORMmusic Premise License from CCS allows copyrighted audio to be played publicly, or music to be performed anywhere outside of worship services.
WORSHIPcast Streaming License from CCS allows music to be streamed during the service on the internet.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is designed to include important copyright information in one place. It should not be used for definitive legal information. Please see the following site for legal information and for other available licenses: