400-20
450
Choreographic works. (cont'd)
450.07
Embodiment of choreography. (cont'd)
450.07(b)
Notation systems. Labanotation, Sutton Movement Shorthand, Benesch Choreology, and other systems of notation are appropriate forms of embodiment to represent the precise movements of the dancers. Such notation, however, is considered a system, and, therefore, is not registrable. See 17 U.S.C. 102(b).
450.07(c)
Textual description. Precise explanations in narrative form, whether in copies or phonorecords, are acceptable if the description is specific enough to indicate detailed movements of the
dancers. Where the description is not sufficiently specific, it cannot be registered as a choreographic work, but may be registrable as a literary work.450.07(d)
Combinations of various formats. A description might include a combination of forms of embodiment, for example, pictorial or graphic diagrams, or detailed verbal descriptions narrated to music on a phonorecord.
450.08
Derivative choreographic works. When substantial new choreographic material has been added to preexisting choreography, it may be registered as a new choreographic work.
Example:
An addition of a new section to Petipa's "Don Quixote."
When the only preexisting material is a few public domain steps, for example, a waltz, or ballet positions, the work is not considered derivative. See section 450.05 above.[1984]
