Thank you to Peter, Philip and ArcticWind7 for their much more moderated replies and some solid information.
Please understand that I have read a majority of posts and it is very easy for a newcomer to get lost in the varying approaches. So, I have a suggestion ― the model is your original copyright page on the IMSLP site that laid out, so clearly, what the situation is in the world regarding copyrights.
PROPOSAL --- AN IMSLP INFORMATION SHEET
It would be of immeasurable help those of us newcomers to have a place on the forum where the major points and solutions were listed in a form as easy to understand as the old copyright module.
> This section would be constructed by the moderators and would no be an open discussion (much like the present Announcement: ~~ Public messages from IMSLP's admins after the takedown ~~).
> In order to be of help, these guides should totally avoid the personal "I-don't-think-they-should-get-away-with" types of argument ... just the facts. Philip's reply to me containing that wonderful exposition his view of the copyright problem is a prime example of the kind of information that should be in that section. You helped me greatly, Philip!
> This area could be positioned on the site as one of the first thing a viewer sees and would be accompanied by an admonition for all to read it before jumping into the fray.
> The guides could also include a solution section where the various suggestions that have come in are listed (with an op cite to the post). There could even be some non-personal, unemotional commentary from the leadership as to why they don’t think the solution could work.
> With a forum section such as I propose, many of your replies could simply be op cite ... see IV/a/1 for example.
With such a well of facts and history, devoid of emotion, you might enjoy less frustration with us who are genuinely interested but who do not have your intimate knowledge of the history and technicalities.
Please remember that those of you who have been with the organization, especially as moderators, know all the ins and outs of the arguments because you've been through them so many times. It is very easy to get upset when one of us plays the same tune, or at best a minor variation of it.
A few more points ….
> Those of us calling for the site to come back up are not “demanding,” ― we are begging.
> As in politics, perception is reality. When I counsel “reality” it is my perception of what is happening based on what I read on the site (all the more reason for a fact section such as I propose).
> What is the status of the discussion with UE? What power does Mr. Irons have within that corporation (e.g., does he officially speak for UE in this affair)?
> How can we help? If bringing back the site means that all the works would have to be vetted by copyright compliance, how many of us are willing to take a block of that huge list and contribute the time?
Finally, nothing I have written or will write in these posts should be construed as attacks on Feldmahler or anyone else. I am indebted to him (them) for taking on a huge project that has such potential. No matter how disgusted, tired, burnt out you are, remember that we are with you even if we don’t agree with you on every point.
All best wishes,
G