Schools, scared by copyright protection organizations’ severe penalties, do not allow graduates to sing and play music tracks during graduation events. Graduation guests admit that they have not been to such quiet events, where the only music is that of the national anthem, for a long time.

«My daughter’s graduation was quiet, because the school’s administration would not allow graduates and their guests to play music,»- Mairita Eglite, mother of Luize – a graduate of Riga Centre Humanitarian Grammar School, said in an interview to Neatkarīga Rīta Avīze newspaper. Graduates had prepared a musical praise of their school, but the administration would not allow them to perform on graduation day. The explanation was short: «You’re leaving the school, but we are remaining. If copyright defenders would impose a fine – the school would be the one to pay it.»

Up until now, there was no problem – to sing or not to sing – on graduation events. It appeared this year – after the offensive of the copyright defenders, admits Riga City Council Education, Culture and Sports Department of General Education Schools Division manager Modra Jansone. She says that fees for acquiring relevant licenses are always paid before public events. However, whether or not it accounts for graduation events – she could not say. This issue is not discussed on monthly school directors meetings.

The AKKA/LAA notes that use of music and songs at schools is only allowed for education purposes. «If an event that does not require entry fees takes place as part of the implementation of the education process in an appropriate amount without commercial intentions, then there is no need to purchase a license,»- AKKA/LAA representative Reinis Brigis says. The next sentence is as exhausting as the previous one: «If the event is taking place outside the normal circle of family and for the entertainment of more than a private group of people or entertainer are being invited, then, in such circumstances, event organizers must obtain a license to publicly play music.»

Ref: 104.109.109.2123