IMSLP Forums

I have a question about Series General Editors. I've come across a few items that I would like to submit, but they are included in series that had editors who have died less than 50 years ago. For example: I just uploaded a copy of George Dyson's Te Deum and Benedictus - an OUP publication copyrighted in 1924, Oxford Church Music series number 411. The General Editor was W.G. Whittaker (1876-1944) - I see no problem here. I'd like to submit Dyson's Magnificat and Nunc dimittis - also an OUP publication copyrighted in 1924, Oxford Church Music series number 412. This publication shows Harold Darke (1888-1976) as General Editor. Can this be submitted to IMSLP or must we wait 50 years from Darke's passing? Many thanks.

It kind of depends (like all copyright issues), but series editors normally contribute little if any original matter to works of active composers whose works are included in a series. This can shift when a work by an older composer like Bach is included. There are naturally exceptions. There is an example on the site where a then-living composer's manuscript is available as part of those associated with the Millet Vox Organi series where an editor really performed some series surgery.

Should I take this as an OK to upload the Dyson M&N?