Monday, January 24, 2005

Next Target for the RIAA?

The band from Renoldsburg High School, a suburb of Columbus, will pay a $3,300 fine to a British composer:

The marching band used the copyrighted music -- without approval -- last year during its halftime show performances and during various competitions.

"They copied it and didn't buy it," said Richard Ross, district superintendent. "They decided to make it part of (their) program."

Ross said the legal situation is unusual but the band "appears to be in the wrong."

The money to pay for the alleged music swiping will come from the Band Boosters, a parent and community organization that supports the band, Ross said.

OK, I admit it. I'm looking for any excuse not to start talking about the 2006 Ohio gubernatorial race. But as far as distractions go, I kind of liked this one.