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by nanidin 4447 days ago
Interesting question - is the author's transcription a derivative work of the video? And if so, is he actually allowed to release his transcription into the public domain (without the permission of the author of the video)?
1 comments

No, it's only derivative in the sense of process. The video lacks originality; for the musical notes it is merely a mechanical reproduction of the punched holes. Similarly, a photograph of a public domain painting is also in the public domain. See: Bridgeman Art Library v. Corel Corp., 36 F. Supp. 2d 191 (S.D.N.Y. 1999). At least this is the law in the United States, which is sensible; absurdity of other jurisdictions may vary.
It's nice to know our system accounts for cases like this. Thanks for the detailed info!