Final answer:
Recording music in the background at a restaurant may result in copyright infringement unless it falls under fair use or proper licensing is obtained. While environmental sounds can be recorded as effects, music requires careful consideration due to copyright laws. Sound designers often use canned sounds for consistency or create original recordings that abide by legal restrictions.
Step-by-step explanation:
When capturing ambient sounds such as a restaurant, recording music in the background without proper permissions may lead to legal issues due to copyright laws. This is because the music playing in the background is likely protected by copyright, and recording it could constitute a copyright violation unless it falls under fair use or you have obtained the necessary licenses. As a sound effect, environmental noises like conversations, clinking glasses, or the sound of breaking glass and clang of metal pans hitting the floor—as part of the ambient noise—can be recorded, assuming they do not contain copyrighted material like music.
Music is often referred to as the universal language because it is a form of expression and communication that transcends cultural and linguistic barriers. Unlike sound, which can encompass any auditory experience, music is structured through rhythm, melody, and harmony, and it carries artistic and emotional significance.
Most sound designers have a background in music and technical theatre, and are skilled at recording new material to create the desired audio environment. While canned sounds from databases can be helpful for consistency, original recordings offer uniqueness. It is important for sound designers to consider the legal aspects of capturing and using sounds in their work, especially when it involves music played in public venues.