Our work starts with the Copyright Act

Our work starts with the Dutch copyright act of 1912 (the Auteurswet). This stipulates that music authors are entitled to remuneration for the use of their creations. But how do authors know when their works are being used and how can they collect their fees? This is difficult to arrange on an individual basis, which is why more than 16,000 music authors have joined Buma/Stemra. Our role as the music copyright organisation means we can handle the exploitation of the copyright for them.

Collecting and distributing remunerations

Are the works of our music authors being performed or replicated? If so, we collect the remunerations concerned from the music users. To do this, our activities include entering into agreements with e.g. broadcasters, record companies, theatres, concert halls and the organisers of concerts and events. We then distribute the money that has been collected to the music authors and music publishers.

Buma or Stemra

There is a division of tasks between Buma and Stemra. Buma is about music being made available to the public, for example in live performances or music in the supermarket or in the hospitality industry. Stemra is concerned with the replication of music, for example the production of CDs and DVDs. Together, Buma and Stemra arrange the terms and conditions for other applications, such as music on the Internet and radio and TV broadcasts.

International exploitation of copyright

Buma/Stemra is not restricted to the commercial exploitation in the Netherlands. We also cooperate closely with foreign music copyright organisations. Agreements with these sister organisations mean that the Dutch repertoire is represented in their countries; we also represent foreign musical works in our country. This is also how remunerations for the international use of music are arranged for composers and lyricists.

Efficient and service-oriented work

Exploitation and management of music copyright is our key task. And we aim to do that at the best possible quality for the lowest possible costs. How are we achieving this? By making our work both service-oriented and efficient. Technical innovations and sharing service tasks with other copyright organisations are important pillars of this strategy.

More than collection and distribution

Buma/Stemra does a lot more than just collecting and distributing fees. For example, we act as the protector of music copyright, e.g. by helping in the battle against music criminality and by providing information about the importance of copyright. Additionally, we provide financial support for our members and (through Buma Cultuur) we make a significant contribution to maintaining the Dutch music culture. This includes organising and sponsoring musical events.