The Production Music Association (PMA) has announced the release of a Standardized Metadata Format for use by production music libraries, worldwide. In conjunction with U.S. Performing Rights organizations, and top leaders in the industry located in both the U.S. and Europe, the PMA has compiled, for the first time ever, a standard set of guidelines designed to benefit production music libraries of all sizes.
“Adopting this metadata standard will allow production music libraries to have registration information stored in a format that is flexible, and can be easily integrated with existing systems such as CWR (Common Works Registration), P.R.O. registrations, MusicSource, Soundminer, and others, “said Randy Wachtler, President of the PMA. “The format outlines the use of registration and other non-creative metadata, allowing libraries the freedom to continue describing their music with the genres, styles, instrumentation, etc., that they already have in place.”
The PMA is pioneering this initiative in an effort to establish a standard method for storing valuable metadata in a format that is more universally compliant with all systems. With this effort, the PMA intends to help publishers and composers get paid more accurately and in a more timely manner.
Additional information from the PMA about the Metadata Standard Format:
What is the Metadata Standard Format?
This standard format is an initiative by the PMA to provide basic metadata guidelines and principles for music libraries of all sizes. As the production music library world continues to move toward a digital environment for online registrations and cue sheets, it’s important to have accurate and accessible information. This format outlines the proper procedure for storing your registration and non-creative information in a meaningful and flexible manner.
Why is this Metadata Standard Format being developed?
Most every metadata system and program requires a different format. The PMA’s recommended standard helps libraries store metadata in a format that will allow for greatest flexibility and exportability.
Will this Metadata Standard be replacing any existing systems or programs?
No. There is a wide array of systems available today, most requiring a different format for integration. The PMA’s format provides the information that music libraries need to insure their metadata is as universally compliant as possible.
Will this Metadata Standard Format make my metadata compliant with CWR (Common Works Registration)?
While the exact layout and format requirements may vary slightly between each Performing Rights Organization (P.R.O.), the PMA Metadata Standard includes all registration information that is needed by the societies for CWR.
Are there any software options available for CWR conversion?
Yes. There are several companies that offer software that will automate the conversion to CWR. Some software will help identify which songs have been registered and which songs need revision. Additionally, they will provide the ability to process the acknowledgment files returned from the P.R.O.
Is the metadata standard format available for Worldwide use?
Yes. The PMA format includes Territory information and is open for Worldwide usage.
Are all music libraries required to use this Metadata Standard Format?
No. The PMA Metadata Standard is simply a recommended format for libraries
ABOUT THE PMA
The PMA is a non-profit, volunteer organization currently comprising over 360 member companies, including major-label publishers and national independents, and is providing crucial leadership to protect the value of our work. The PMA provides education, support and advocacy on behalf of the production music community. For more information please visit www.pmamusic.com.
