Series General Editors

[David Campbell]

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.

[Carolus]

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.

[David Campbell]

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