Germany collecting society Gema held its annual general meeting last week – online, of course, with around 1,000 of its songwriter, composer and publisher members taking part.
The event included some blunt words from CEO Dr Harald Heker on why Covid-19 relief measures taken by the society this year can only go so far.
“We are aware that these acute support schemes are not enough. From a financial perspective, 2021 will be even more difficult for many of you. Our revenues will be lower than in 2020, and we will therefore pay out less to you,” he warned delegates at the AGM. “Since March, hardly any events have taken place, which is an economic disaster of huge proportions.”
Like its fellow societies around the world, Gema is throwing itself into campaigning for further relief programmes from the government of its country, including for solo, self-employed musicians.
“Much has been put in place in a short time. Now we should examine things closely and be smart in how we improve them,” said Heker.
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