APRA launches new system for jingle members

APRA AMCOS has launched a new online reporting system that will improve services to its members.

The copyright collective has now launched OPUS (Online Portal for Uploading Songs) for its members who write jingles or music for broadcast commercials. The new system allows APRA AMCOS members to upload audio recordings of their musical works.

Once the audio files are uploaded to OPUS, (software that was developed by Harvest Media), they are placed in the database of music recognition technology (MRT) provider Soundmouse. Soundmouse provides APRA AMCOS with matching data to distribute royalty payments based on real-time airings.

“[OPUS] came about because we recognised the need to be able to use music recognition technology as a part of our general operations to benefit our members,” said Catherine Gerrard,
 Director Membership at APRA AMCOS.

Gerrard, who runs APRA AMCOS’ membership team, led the project with an expert group. Initially released for jingle writers and publishers only, she hopes to have it used by other sections of the APRA AMCOS membership in the future.

“It’s just a matter of taking one step at a time,” Gerrard told TMN. “[…] We do plan to release OPUS to other specific sections of our membership but for the time being, we are focusing on jingles.”

Last year Gerrard formed a Jingle Advisory Group to consult with APRA AMCOS jingle members on the move away from self-reporting. The new system will officially launch in the new financial year.

Currently jingle members have until April 30 to upload their audio files to allow for rigorous testing of the new system. Those files will be added to the Soundmouse database, and ad-tracking company Ebiquity, will identify advertisements on television and radio in Australia and New Zealand. Initially, MRT will provide metadata from broadcasting in major cities with self-reporting still required in other areas, but this will expand in the future. APRA AMCOS will use data from both reporting systems to distribute jingle payments. Jingle members will submitself-reporting formsuntil the new system is launched in the new financial year.

APRA AMCOS has also launched an update to its Writer Portal with a host of new features and processes, giving its writer members the ability to register their songs and compositions or jingles, report live performances and view their statements.

“[It] means a streamlined approach for members to access their details and provides more granular information about royalty income for themselves and any co-writers,” said Gerrard.

Gerrard has also told TMN APRA AMCOS has plans to launch an app that will feature improved and streamlined functionality for writer members.

“We are improving dramatically all the time. The new Writer Portal and OPUS is part of our commitment to continuing to improve our systems to better serve our members.”