GVL stands for Gesellschaft zur Verwertung von Leistungsschutzrechten. It was founded in 1959 and has its headquarters in Berlin.
1.) Activities of the GVL
Like GEMA, GVL is a collecting society. However, it does not administer the rights of authors, but the rights of those entitled to neighbouring rights. Its members are therefore producers of phonograms and performing artists. GVL is responsible in particular for the remuneration of broadcasts, i.e. income from broadcasts on radio and television. Here it also handles the collection, which is otherwise done by GEMA. If you want to participate in this distribution as a label or artist, you have to register with the GVL. Registration and membership are (still) free of charge. As a label, you also receive the so-called “label code” from the GVL.
2.) Distribution
The distribution of funds is now carried out according to the systems “TRYSIS” and “ARTSYS”. ARTSYS is an extensive online database and serves as the basis for the GVL’s modernised accounting system. As of the 2010 distribution, the GVL remunerates purely on a usage basis. This means that one receives royalties for each recording in which one has participated and which is used in the media. If the performer is not entered in the database with a recording, he or she will not receive any remuneration.
If you have questions about the GVL or other issues, I will be happy to advise you. It is not necessary for you to come to my office. You can send me your request in advance by email (also with attachments). I will then make you a non-binding offer for a mandate and, if necessary, contact you by telephone. A mandate only comes into effect when the mandate is issued in writing.
