Royalty-Free Music Resources:

As students of the digital age committed to doing justice, how can we likewise model ethical behavior when using technology? Generally speaking, you would not use any music published by your favorite music artist; i.e., your personal playlists, even if you purchased legitimately, in your own digital creations.

A couple of sources are included below for royalty-free music, which you can use in your creative projects. Royalty-free does not necessarily mean no cost. “Free” refers to the freedom to copy, distribute, or modify another’s intellectual property, either in the public domain or by free license. Some sites have free trials.

You’ll need to do some research on the cost and license type. Many have student or education-usage rights, and you’ll want to be sure you are working within the terms of those licenses. Some education usage licenses prohibit posting music to a website or using for fundraising, so choose wisely if your partner plans to use the video with donors.

Other options include using your GarageBand app to try your hand at creating your very own short music clip! The app is free from the iTunes Store. Also, within iMovie and Apple Clips apps you can also find built-in soundtracks for ethical reuse.