World IP Day Celebration 2015

“When Bob Marley and the Wailers laid down the opening track on Burnin’ in a Kingston recording studio some four decades ago, they likely had little idea how far their simple, straightforward tune would resonate, becoming an enduring international anthem for human rights.

Such is the power of music. Since the earliest rhythms emerged and evolved into this most universal of creative expressions, music has moved us. From Beijing opera to the Vienna Philharmonic, from Bamako blues to Chicago house, from raga to raï to township to dubstep, music transcends borders and connects with some primal beat within all of us. Even when we are not listening, music is often playing over in our minds – a soundtrack to our thoughts.

The music we enjoy today comes from the inspiration and hard work of thousands of creative people around the world – singers and songwriters; musicians and publishers; producers, arrangers, engineers and many others. Its breadth and variety results from an unprecedented accessibility to musical genres and styles – all at the tap of a screen – that brings us new hybrid forms almost daily. And the technologies through which we access music change almost as quickly – as do the business models that support them. Downloading or streaming, purchase or subscription, direct sale from creator to consumer – all options are on the table.

What is the future of our relationship with music? How will it be created and disseminated? How will we listen to it? And how will we ensure that all those involved in bringing us this universal pleasure can make a living from their craft?” (http://www.wipo.int/ip-outreach/en/ipday/)