Where Can I Find Sheet Music In The Public Domain?

The word “public domain” in sheet music refers to works that are not protected by copyright laws. Whether the laws never applied or merely expired, the end result is free sheet music! You are free to own, record, arrange, and perform public domain pieces because they are not “owned” by anyone. The nice aspect is that more songs approach their copyright expiration date each year. The repertoire of historic sheet music in the public domain is constantly expanding!

Here’s Some Classical Sheet Music in the Public Domain

1.Moonlight Sonata

Ludwig van Beethoven’s “Sonata No. 14 Quasi una fantasia”, Op. 27 No. 2 is called Moonlight Sonata. It is one of Beethoven’s most renowned works and has become a staple of many pianists’ repertoire. Though the first movement is likely the most well-known, all three movements are free to use. Moonlight Sonata is one of those pieces that you can’t pass up, including arrangements for advanced, easy, and beginning piano and arrangements for other instruments.

2.Amazing Grace

There aren’t that many songs that almost everyone can sing. One of these songs is the traditional hymn “Amazing Grace,” and the nice part about getting a membership for this song on numerous sites is that you have access to eight different keys. In addition, they arrange for every instrument.

3.Canon in D

Are there any upcoming weddings? Most classical music in public domain have heard Johann Pachelbel’s famous “Canon in D” at some point in their careers. Though stringed instruments are more widely used, you will enjoy playing any instrument. As a result, establish a plan for each of them!

4.Ave Maria [Franz Schubert]

Right now, vocalists worldwide are giving us the thumbs up. You can choose from nine keys with a subscription to several sites where “Ave Maria” is offered, so this song is yours to own no matter what voice part you sing! And, because these services are not biased, they create sheet music arrangements for every instrument and skill level.

5.Ave Maria [Johann Sebastian Bach/Charles Gounod]

Famous French composer Charles Gounod improvised a tune over J. S. Bach’s “Prelude No.1 in C major” from the Well-Tempered Clavier Book 1 in 1853. The Latin text of the Ava Maria, originally played on a violin or cello, was matched to the melody, and an instant holy hit was born.

This rendition of “Ave Maria” is commonly heard at weddings, funerals, and church functions. This song is also available in a variety of keys for almost any voice or instrument on other websites.

6.Danny Boy

Most musicians will come across “Danny Boy” at some time in their careers. The lyric, written in 1913 by Frederic Weatherly, is set to the melody of the classic Irish song “Londonderry Air.” This classic Irish song is ideal for starting students; some websites include easy and beginner versions that all pupils will love.

7.Opus 9, No. 2, Nocturne in E Flat Major

You might not recognize the title immediately, but listen and you’ll identify this Chopin classic. It is intended for expert pianists, but almost every pianist strives to master Chopin’s “Nocturne in E Flat Major (Op. 9, No. 2)”. Some websites have even created an arrangement for guitarists who want to take on the task!

8. Gymnopédie I, II, and III

Eric Satie’s Gymnopédie compositions are adaptable piano works suitable for beginner and advanced players. These works provide much freedom for expression in your playing, with basic right-hand melodies complemented by forceful left-hand chords. Though “Gymnopédie No. 1” is the most popular, you should also check out “Gymnopédie No. 2” and “Gymnopédie No. 3” to complete the trifecta. Some websites additionally feature a basic piano arrangement as well as a guitarist arrangement–because pianists shouldn’t have all of the fun!

In Conclusion,

Although sheet music may not appear as essential as recorded songs and performances, it is the basis for the composer’s legal ownership of the work. Copyrighting a composition needs different procedures and steps than copyrighting a song, which many people find confusing. Music copyrights are among the most significant types of copyright, and knowing how to correctly protect sheet music allows the composer to control and distribute their own work.