Folk tradition vs Copyrights

[David Baron <Davidb...>]

This issue is perennial. When ASCAP "went after" girl scout 
camps, it reached its limit.

When does use of a song become commercial, in which case, 
the copyright holders, usually through ASCAP, BMI, etc., 
should get compensation? Does leading a sing-a-long at 
Synagogue, for which people paid admission, fill this 
definition?

I am also a programmer. Shareware or sample programs that
I use regularly, I will register/pay for. A song that I 
place on a cassette that will be marketted, I should also 
pay for. Just what the limits are, maybe it is time for a 
psak halachah from a rav expert in such matters!