I have heard conflicting theories as to where the law now stands in respect of copyright, including works formerly in the public domain. Different rules apply in different countries, and the situation is made even more confusing by the fact that the Internet crosses all international boundaries.
Some opinions hold that a British work which was clearly once in the public domain, based on the old fifty-year rule, will not have reverted back into copyright protection. But whatever the true legal position, I intend to play safe and not include on my website any British musical show or song whose composer was still alive seventy years ago.
However, I have been advised that, under American law, a work published in the United States prior to 1923 is considered to be already in the public domain. You may note that I have made an exception in the case of Frank E. Tours who became an American citizen in 1917 and whose descendants have expressed their wish that his music be included.
In many Edwardian shows we find instances of extra songs contributed by lesser-known composers about some of whom I can find no details at all on the Internet. In a few cases I have taken a calculated risk, as with Harold Garstin, J. A. Robertson and Rolan Macurtha. If anyone knows of any reason why these songs should not lawfully be included here, please advise me, and they will at once be withdrawn.